University of Gondar’s Community School ends its year in spectacular fashion
Taking place in Science Amba’s auditorium, on 9 July 2017 the University of Gondar’s community school held a graduation commencement and an end of the year celebration to commemorate the end of the 2009 school year. Those who attended the event were, among others, the president of the University of Gondar Dr. Desalegn Mengesha, the Vice Presidents’ of the university, UoG Board members, Dr. Yinges Alemu Vice President of Business and Development Affairs & Community School Board Chairman, the parent teacher association, parents of the students and the faculty and staff of UoG Community School.
Dr. Desalegn Mengesha the President of the University of Gondar opened the event and expressed his high praise for the work and commitment that the students were showing in their marks. “The University of Gondar will always support you,” he said when reflecting on the UoG’s stance on backing up Community School.
Mr. Mengestu Mulu the director of Community School spoke about the problems the school faced in the 2017 school year. Trying to shed light on the issues the director gave some examples of the barriers that once hindered Community Schools success. But in the same light the subsequent solutions were revealed to illustrate the progress that was made.
For example there were classroom shortages and a scarcity of open vacancies in Community School when it came to KG application and acceptance. Most of the time parents would have to choose another school for their children because of the tight competition. But now since Bridge (a kids school found in UoG’s main campus) is accepting entry there is now free space and open slots for those up and coming future intellectuals.
In addition, some other hindrances did pull Community School back just a bit. A water shortage in the main campus hampered their ability to gain access to water that was much needed for everyday activities and work. Through the consorted effort on the part of the University and Community School that problem was solved. The school chose to dig deep into the ground to gain access to wells that flow deep under the soil of the earth. This allowed the school to gain the much-needed water that was essential for them.
Last but not least, the University of Gondar Community School trained many of its teachers in the art of instruction to enhance their abilities. This in turn assisted in the sense that it bolstered the techniques of the teachers as well as giving the students the chance to have a quality education here at home.
The event that took place on 9 July made some impression on the students and guests. A live band that played background smoothed the mood allowing for a mellow atmosphere. Other entertainment came in the form of live drama, poetry, music performances and competitions. The day was a festive one. Even those UoG staff members who contributed in adding to Community School’s success were acknowledged and given an award. This was a highlight of the event because numerous partners add to the progress of the school.
Community School, which was founded in 1997, has been elevating in its reach and goal to become the premier school for children in Gondar. When established in 1997 the amount of students were 101 students of which 33 were male and 68 were female. Over this past decade the eagerness to enroll to this top-flight school has increased dramatically changing the whole landscape of the school. At present, there are 1,253 students enrolled at this state of the art institution of which 590 are male and 663 being female.
The school is one of the top ranked institutions for children in Gondar and in the region. A high percentage of the students who take their exams pass with flying colors and are destined for great things in the future. Amongst the premier schools in Gondar city, Community School is still in high demand and caters to the needs of aspiring students. And in the years to come there is a hope that this progress will be consistent or even excel to new heights.
By Meseret Alemneh
Translated by Samuel Malede
