St Mary’s University hosts a certification ceremony for Animation and Media Training that took place at the American Corner located at the Main Campus of the University On February 5, 2024. The event was organized by the US Embassy in collaboration with St Mary’s University and the Ethiopian World Federation Association (EWF).

Her Excellency Naome Fellos, the Public Diplomacy Counsellor of the US Embassy Addis Ababa, described the event as a collaborative effort among the US Embassy Addis Ababa, St Mary’s University, and the Ethiopian World Federation. She acknowledged the commitment of these partners in making this graduation program possible.

Wondwosen Tamrat, Ph.D., President, founder of St Mary’s University in his remarks, congratulated the trainees who successfully completed their special training on animation after three months of hard work at the American Corner, which St Mary’s University has been hosting since May 2023.

He expressed his pleasure in hosting this vibrant center, emphasizing its rapid growth since its establishment. “Over the past 8 months, the center has become a valuable hub for information, skill training, and networking. The two-decade partnership between the US Embassy and St Mary’s University holds significant value for Ethiopian youth and job creation,” he remarked.

His Excellency Ambros R. King, President of the Ethiopian World Federation Association, highlighted that this Imagining, Animation, and Media Educational project exemplifies the unity between Ethiopia and the United States of America. It draws upon a rich history of spiritual and cultural ties dating back to the 1800s and 1900

​Her Excellency Nebiah Mohammed, the State Minister of Labor & Skills emphasized the significant potential of the creative art industry in driving economic transformation and creating quality employment opportunities, especially for youth. She expressed her gratitude on behalf of the ministry to the US Embassy and St Mary’s University for their consistent support, which has played a crucial role in youth development and fostering innovation through such programs as Digital Animation Training.

​As a culmination of their hard work,  45 students were awarded certificates of participation in the training. They also showcased their animation pieces of work, celebrating their achievements and the impact of this valuable initiative.