PM Abiy stresses intellectual vision, collaboration and self-mastery as pillars of Ethiopia’s growth

Addis Ababa, January 4, 2026 (FMC) — Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed (PhD) has highlighted the critical role of intellectual vision, collaboration, and self-mastery in steering Ethiopia toward sustainable development and inclusive prosperity.

Speaking at the 75th anniversary of Addis Ababa University, his alma mater, the Prime Minister presented a research paper titled “The Role of Intellectuals in National Prosperity.”

The lecture, attended by senior academic leaders, government officials, and prominent stakeholders, concluded a series of high-level commemorative events marking the university’s milestone.

In his address, Prime Minister Abiy emphasized that intellectuals are central to national transformation. He noted that scholars must understand the past, analyze the present, and envision the future to create a shared national narrative capable of uniting society and driving progress.

He described intellectuals as agents of change whose ideas should be translated into concrete actions that strengthen institutions and empower the people.

The Prime Minister stressed that effective leadership begins with self-mastery.

He explained that intellectuals need to engage in deep reflection, listen to their inner voice, and overcome personal limitations before attempting to lead others.

PM Abiy further noted that leadership requires mastery of time and context, acting purposefully in the present while anticipating future challenges.

Highlighting Ethiopia’s unique opportunities and dilemmas, PM Abiy cautioned that failing to establish a shared truth and adapt to global transformations could leave the country behind.

The Prime Minister pointed to the accelerating influence of artificial intelligence, structural limitations in governance, and ideological fragmentation as challenges that demand a unified vision and concerted action.

He underscored that a transcendent national vision, active transformation, and collective capacity are essential for overcoming these dilemmas.

He also underscored the multifaceted role of intellectuals in building a patriotic and entrepreneurial generation.

According to the Prime Minister, scholars must turn knowledge into action, simplify lives, empower society, and cultivate a culture of creativity, work, democracy, and civic responsibility. He explained that fostering a generation capable of meeting the country’s challenges requires sustained effort, foresight, and relentless dedication.

Prime Minister Abiy highlighted that national development necessitates a multi-sectoral approach.

He explained that intellectuals, government, higher education institutions, the private sector, and society must collaborate to create entrepreneurial value, share successes and challenges, and build infrastructure that connects skills to opportunity.

PM Abiy stressed that structural problems cannot be solved through isolated efforts and emphasized that ideas must go beyond ideological or professional boundaries to generate tangible results.

He added that intellectuals need to actively engage in the marketplace of ideas, work beyond personal gain, and act as bridges for collective progress.

He noted that ideas generate movement and that movement creates systems, stressing that the thoughts and actions of intellectuals should ultimately give rise to lasting institutions that benefit all Ethiopians.

In conclusion, Prime Minister Abiy called for united action, emphasizing that Ethiopia’s path to prosperity depends on intellectual vision, self-mastery, collaboration across sectors, and a sustained commitment to transforming ideas into institutions capable of delivering inclusive growth.