Ethiopian Studies Trip Brings Classroom Learning to Life

At ICS Addis, learning goes beyond the classroom—especially in our Ethiopian Studies program, where students deepen their understanding of local history and culture through hands-on experiences.

A recent visit to Unity Park gave our students an unforgettable opportunity to explore key moments and figures in Ethiopia’s past. From Menelik’s Palace and the banquet hall to the zoo, aquarium, and even the prison where Emperor Haile Selassie’s 60 ministers were once held, each stop connected directly to topics students had studied in class.

Seeing their classroom knowledge come to life through real artifacts and historical sites sparked meaningful conversations and a deeper appreciation for their heritage.

In class, students had also just wrapped up a unit on migration—exploring themes such as internal, refugee, labor, and international movements. The topic took on added depth as they learned about a time in Ethiopian history when students were sent abroad to study and returned to serve their country.

To enrich this learning even further, we welcomed a very special guest: Ato Shiferaw, who was personally selected by Emperor Haile Selassie to attend Columbia University. His visit brought history to life in an extraordinary way, offering students a rare firsthand perspective on a pivotal era.

Through experiences like these, the Ethiopian Studies program at ICS Addis empowers students to connect with the Ethiopian history, cultue, and community in powerful ways.