The Embassy of Canada in Ethiopia in collaboration with Haramaya Universality hosted a day-long informative session on higher education opportunities in Canada for Haramaya University academic staff and students on February 15, 2024, at Afran Kallo Hall of the University.
Dr. Emana Beyene, the Director of Haramaya University’s Career Development Services and Deliverology Directorate, emphasized the importance of creating awareness about the scholarship programs offered by the Canadian Government to the academic staff and students. He highlighted the existing opportunities, challenges, and the need for partnership between the university and the Canadian Embassy. This initiative is proposed as a step forward and should be extended to the area of academic partnership collaboration.
Dr. Emana also stressed that the explanation provided by the officials of the Canadian Embassy is crucial, especially when there is a lot of misleading and distorted information being disseminated through websites and social media outlets. Therefore, he added that getting clear and useful information from the source is valuable, as information accounts for 30% of an individual’s success in life.
Ms. Meriem Belghaubi, an Immigration Officer, and Ms. Esetemichael Shibru, a senior Migration Program Assistant from the Canadian Embassy, presented a topic titled “Study in Canada.” They provided detailed information about studying in Canada, including how to apply for a study permit, the application procedure, required documents, staying in Canada, working as a student, post-graduation work plans, pathways for permanent residence, and the application process.
The students and academic staff appreciated the presentation for the timely communication and useful information that leads to their academic success. The participants also raised questions and comments related to further clarification including visa verification, application fees, support services, the availability of free scholarships for developing countries like Ethiopia, legal procedures in getting permits, and the possibility of working in Canada at the end of program completion.
The collaborative initiative aimed at creating awareness on scholarship opportunities in Canada for academic staff and students of Haramaya University was highly appreciated. It provided valuable information, cleared up any ambiguities and assisted interested applicants who want to pursue further education in Canada.
Haramaya University Public and International Relations Directorate