Madda Walabu University has officially launched a Training of Trainers program focused on “Urgent Mitigation Measures to Preserve the Tangible and Intangible Cultural Heritage of the Dire Sheik Hussein Site from Climate Change Impacts”, bringing together key stakeholders and international partners to strengthen efforts in preserving heritage sites.
The opening session commenced with welcoming and keynote remarks delivered by the University’s Academic, Research, Community Service, and Technology Transfer Vice President, Dr. Bezabih Wondimu. In his address, Dr. Bezabih emphasized the critical importance of collaboration among Madda Walabu University, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, and Wako Gutu Foundation. He highlighted that such partnerships are essential for safeguarding Ethiopia’s rich cultural heritage in the face of emerging global challenges.
Delivering remarks on behalf of Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Prof. Marco Lombardi stressed the urgency of implementing mitigation measures to protect both tangible and intangible cultural heritage. He specifically underscored the need to preserve the Dirre Sheik Hussein Site from the growing impacts of climate change.
Similarly, Mr. Yakob Ahmed, Program Director of Wako Gutu Foundation, expressed his organization’s commitment to the initiative. He noted that the Foundation is honored to be part of such a meaningful project and extended appreciation to the ALIPH Foundation for its financial support.
An overview of the project’s context and objectives was jointly presented by Prof. Marco Lombardi and Mr. Habtamu, outlining the broader vision and expected outcomes of the training.
The five-days of program will cover a range of critical topics, including risk management, climate change and documentation, community engagement, governance and peacebuilding, as well as foundational skills in adult learning, training design, and material development. The program will conclude with practical Training of Trainers sessions and evaluation.
The initiative marks a significant step toward enhancing local capacity and fostering sustainable cultural heritage management through international cooperation and knowledge exchange.
# 27 April 2026 MWU Public & International Relation Office
