Addis Ababa, January 2, 2026 (FMC) — Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has emphasized that ideas are the driving force of societal transformation and that intellectuals play a decisive role in leading change and steering countries toward prosperity.
The remarks were made as Addis Ababa University marked the 75th anniversary of its establishment. On the occasion, the Prime Minister delivered a guest lecture and engaged in discussions on the role of Ethiopian intellectuals in addressing comprehensive national issues.
In a social media post shared following the event, the Prime Minister stressed that the change brought about by intellectuals within society is fundamental to national development. He underlined that intellectuals are expected to respect and value ideas, think deeply, read widely, address challenges, and continuously search for solutions to complex problems.
He noted, “Ideas are the power of change, and intellectuals are agents of change. The change that intellectuals bring about within society leads a country toward prosperity.”
According to the Prime Minister, the Medemer State places strong emphasis on the role of higher education institutions in Ethiopia’s journey toward prosperity and is working to ensure that this role is fully realized.
He further noted that “higher education institutions have an indispensable role in the country’s journey toward prosperity,” and highlighted that universities are expected to integrate teaching and learning with research activities and technology, transforming academic work into innovation and practical application.
He further emphasized that effectively linking education, research, and technology plays a vital role in accelerating Ethiopia’s development by harnessing the country’s combined national capacity.
The Prime Minister added that this approach ensures that intellectual contributions have tangible impact on society.