Ethiopia’s Adwa Victory Legacy to Be Taught in Schools Through New Outreach Program

Addis Ababa, October 30, 2026 (FMC) — The Adwa Victory Memorial is preparing to launch a school outreach program to help young Ethiopians understand the historical significance of the Victory of Adwa, the country’s cultural heritage, and the shared history that has shaped national unity.

Adwa Victory Memorial Study and Research Director Mekuanent Tilahun said preparations for the program have been finalized, with preliminary activities completed ahead of its launch.

The initiative will extend educational activities beyond the memorial, enabling students from pre-primary to secondary levels to learn about the Victory of Adwa, Ethiopian culture, national identity, unity, and shared historical narratives.

The Victory of Adwa remains a defining moment in Ethiopian history, when Ethiopians united to defeat an invading colonial army and defend their country’s independence and dignity. The victory also became a source of inspiration for Black people facing oppression and colonial domination elsewhere.

According to Mekuanent, the memorial is working to become a dynamic platform for Ethiopians and Africans to engage in constructive dialogue, deepen their understanding of history, and draw lessons from the experiences of previous generations.

He stressed that the present generation has a responsibility to contribute to building a stronger Ethiopia by understanding its history, learning from its forefathers, preserving national unity, and safeguarding its identity.

The memorial’s monthly public discussion forums serve as platforms for historical education and help foster a shared understanding of the country’s past, he noted. The discussions also encourage participants to draw lessons from their ancestors’ experiences to strengthen national unity and safeguard sovereignty.

Mekuanent announced that an event titled the Adwa Forum is scheduled for February, while efforts are underway to expand similar educational and discussion-based activities to schools and higher education institutions.

As part of the preparations, the memorial has begun work toward signing a memorandum of understanding with the Addis Ababa City Administration Education Bureau to facilitate the school outreach initiative.

The program, according to a report from ENA, is expected to provide students with opportunities to engage with the history of Adwa and explore its significance for Ethiopian culture, identity, unity, and the development of a shared national narrative.