EGST Council of Owners, Board members, Faculty and Class of 2021 in part
The Ethiopian Graduate School of Theology held its 21st Graduation with all precautionary measures against the COVID-19 Pandemic on the 31st of July 2021.
Among the 43 (12 female and 31 male) Graduates of 2021, 3 completed their Master of Theology (MTh), 11 Biblical and Theological Studies (MABTS), 10 Leadership and Management (MALM), 8 in Development Studies (MADevS), and 11 their Post Graduate Diploma in Biblical and Theological Studies (PGD).
Professor Tekete Yohannes, EGST Board Member
Professor Teketel Yohannes, EGST Board member opened the event with the word of prayer followed by an opening speech from EGST Board Vice-Chairperson Ato Tewodros Beyene.
Ato Tewodros Beyene, EGST Board Vice-Chairperson
In his speech, Ato Tewodros quoted from Proverbs 19:2 which says “Desire without knowledge is not good, and whoever makes haste with his feet misses his way.” And he admonished the Graduates that they have been trained to teach and not to rule over the people of God.
Rev. Dr. Misgana Mathewos, addressing the Audience
On the commencement, EGST Director, Rev. Dr. Misgana Mathewos welcomed the Class of 2021, Faculty and Staff, Members of Former and current Council of Owners and Board, Families of Graduates and Invited guests. In his message, the Director expressed his feelings and paid a tribute to the late Dr. Peter Cotterell who served EGST as director from 1997-1999. He said, “Peter was not only the director of the institution but also proved to be a celebrated teacher, writer, speaker and a person with passionate heart for the mission of God in Ethiopia and elsewhere.” In his remark, the Director further noted that the institution revised its five year strategic plan which will focus on seven strategic pillars which are Academic Development and Excellence, Research Development and Excellence, Students and Alumni Services, Community Engagement, Financial Sustainability, Leadership and Staff Capacity Building,and Infrastructure and Services/ system.
Pastor Tesfaye Gabbiso
Pastor Tesfaye Gabisso who graduated with the Master of Theology program on the occasion delivered a sermon on the Great Commission from Mathew 28:19 and expounded the commandment of our Lord Jesus to go and make disciples of all nations. He then sang one of his famous songs, which says, “Before my soul goes to its God, and my flesh to the dust, let me complete my work quickly and diligently”
Dr. Seblewengel Daniel, Head of Academic Affairs at EGST, presented the awarding of degrees to students alongside with the Director, EGST Board V/Chairperson, and the registrar.
Dr. Seblewengel Daniel, Head of Academic Affairs
Dr. Lidetu Alemu, Head of Students’ Affairs at EGST, on his part presented the highest institutional academic prizes along with the Director, the president of EKHC, and the Chairperson of the Council of Owners.
EGST Registrar Hana Bekele, Rev. Dr. Misgana Mathewos EGST Director, and EKHC General Secretary Dr. Simeon Mulatu
Highhest Institutional prize winner, Misikir Genene(MALM) and medalists, Birhan Gona (MABTS), and Nahom Alemneh(PGD)
Graduate testimonies were delivered by the valedictorian of 2021, Misikir Genene and graduate representative, Eyael Fisseha.
Eyayel Fisseha, giving her testimony
Professor Eyasu Elias presenting Highest Institutional Award
Miskir Genene, Highest Institutional Award winner, giving Valedictorian speech
Professor Eyasu, President of EKHC giving charge to the Graduates
Rev. Iteffa Gobena- EECMY President Emeritus and Former Member of EGST Council of Owners closing the occasion in prayer and Benediction
The Graduation ceremony was concluded by a closing prayer and benediction from Rev. Iteffa Gobena, President Emeritus of EECMY and followed by refreshments