Department of Sociology and Social Anthropology along with Social and Behavioral Sciences Research Unit (SBSRU) of College of Social Science and Humanities has organized a daylong workshop to observe ‘World Day for Cultural Diversity: Dialogue and Development’, at Chamo Campus on 25th May, 2016. Click here to see the pictures.
The event got off to flying start with Gamo Gofa Cultural Music Band regaling the audience with traditional dance and music of five ethnic groups. SBSRU Coordinator, Mr Salsawi Feleke, welcomed the audience.
The chief guest, Dr Bayleyegn Tasew of Addis Ababa University, in his key-note speech, claimed Ethiopian cultural diversity hasn’t been fully exploited. Terming diversity as the human capital, he said, ‘‘It’s basis for survival, but yet, Ethiopian scholars haven’t dwelt deeper into it; its wider implication for existence and development needs to be understood by people.’’
He further said, ‘‘Every culture is creative and innovative in its nature which are the main drivers of development. Further, tolerance, respect and mutual understanding are important determinants that decide peace and stability of any nation.’’
Folklore, his specialization, is concerned with knowledge and life of groups; ‘folk’ means group and ‘lore’ knowledge. ‘‘And there are measurements which are classifying elements like ‘origin’ and ‘descent’ have to be understood in the right spirit,’’ he added.
Later part of the day saw two presentations; SBSRU member, Mr Bosha Bombe, spoke about polygamy and its impact among Ale people in Segan People’s Zone while Mr Zelalem Getahun and Mr Wondyifraw spoke about the common shared values of five Ethnic groups in Gamo Gofa Zone.
Later in a culture show, students representing five ethnic groups of Gamo Gofa Zone – Gamo, Gofa, Gidicho, Zeyise and Oyida, draped in gorgeous attires danced to the traditional music to showcase their regional ethnic splendor.
Mr Salsawi Feleke speaking, said, ‘‘Such events tend to promote tolerance and peace in South Nations Nationalities and People’s Region, which is the hotspot for ethnic diversity. He admits Ethiopian cultural potential is not yet fully harnessed and documented; if done so, it will be of great global significance.’’
(By Philips Joseph: Corporate Communication Directorate)