‘‘We have strong umbilical ties with our national flag, which is the symbol of our triumph over the fascist Italian forces in the battle of Adowa. It signifies all African Unity, as many of the African nations have officially accepted Ethiopian flag (with little modifications) as the symbol of their national unity, integrity, liberty and sovereignty, said the Vice-President for Administration and Development, Dr Kassa Tadele. Click here to see images from the celebration.

Dr Kassa Tadele was speaking during the National Flag Day celebration organized at the University Main Campus on September 23. He also spoke about the religious and cultural equality that characterizes Ethiopian unity in diversity.

Dr Kassa unfurled the tri-color amid the presence of university top officials, academic, support & administrative staff, as national anthem imbued all present with national fervor. The flag attached to the hydrogen balloon was also released, which got the fancy of all.

The Vice-President for Research and Community Service, Dr Guchi Gulie, also hoisted the flag of South Nations Nationalities & People’s Regional State, of which Arba Minch is the part.

The program begun with Community School students marching towards the management building holding flag fluttering high in their hands.

The Director of Corporate Communication Directorate, Mr Genene Gedebu Feleha, in the beginning set the tone of national fervor by saying, ‘‘Ethiopia flag has prolonged history as it had different size, shapes and interpretations as it used to represent various past political regimes. But this one, which we lovingly called ‘Sendak Alama,’ is inclusive, as it represents all; it’s an embodiment of Ethiopian unity, liberty, integrity and cultural plurality.’’

Calling upon youth, he said, ‘‘We have had good things to boast about, but abysmal poverty is the greatest challenge we are facing; if you youths work in right direction, we can bring in constructive change and prosperity to the nation thus keeping our the flag fluttering high.’’

The university police presented the march past to the dignitaries present on the dais. The function was organized by Corporate Communication Directorate; Wondewosen Desalegn and Woderyelesh Alemayehu compered the function in tradition attire.

By Philips Joseph