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The project is expected to directly impact more than 4,000 students and their families, fostering socio-economic development and enabling brighter futures for these underserved areas.
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia: UNOPS and the Government of Italy have signed a €4.2 million project agreement to construct primary schools in Gurage Zone and West Shewa Zone, Ethiopia. The project was signed in the presence of H.E. Berhanu Nega, Minister of Education of Ethiopia and H.E. Anna Maria Bernini Minister of University and Research Italy.
This project targets the Gurage Zone in the Central Ethiopia Region State and the West Shewa Zone in the Oromia Region, specifically near the towns of Wolkite of Ambo. These regions, which have faced substantial challenges to development, will soon benefit from improved access to quality education and related infrastructure.
The project will provide an opportunity to reach a greater number of out-of-school children in these two regions, aligning with SDG 4's targets of ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education and promoting lifelong learning opportunities for all. Through a climate-resilient infrastructure, the project will construct modern primary school facilities equipped with classrooms, libraries, and administrative spaces; install WASH facilities to safeguard the health and well-being of students and staff, improve transportation and technology to overcome geographic barriers and bring education closer to marginalized communities and recruit, train, and deploy qualified teachers to ensure high-quality education.
H.E. Amb. Agostino Palese, Italian Ambassador to Ethiopia at the event said “This initiative highlights Italy's steadfast commitment to fostering sustainable and inclusive development in Ethiopia, with the aim that all communities in the country benefit from peace dividends. By investing in education, particularly in regions like Gurage Zone and West Shewa Zone, we aim to empower communities, bridge inequalities, and build a foundation for a brighter future. Education is a catalyst for socio-economic transformation, and we are proud to partner with UNOPS in realizing this shared vision for Ethiopia's youth and future.”
Ms. Worknesh Mekonnen, Director of the Horn of Africa Multi-Country Office of UNOPS said, "This project demonstrates the strong commitment of the Government of Italy to reducing disparities and promoting inclusive development. It marks a significant milestone in our efforts to empower communities through education. By investing in these regions, we aim to break the cycle of poverty and create opportunities for the next generation."
Press contact details:
UNOPS, Meron Aberra, Communication Officer, E-mail: merons@unops.org,
Mobile: +251-911 221060 , Website: https://www.unops.org/ethiopia,