Dire Dawa University Students Face Unprecedented Crisis: A Call to Action
Published Sept. 19, 2025, 9:12 a.m. by FNN
Dire Dawa University Students Face Unprecedented Crisis: A Call to Action
Dire Dawa University, one of Ethiopia's prominent tertiary educational institutions, is currently experiencing a severe crisis that has left its student community in a state of uncertainty and distress.
The Root of the Crisis
According to local sources, the crisis traces its roots back to the academic years of 2009 and 2010 when the curriculum, allegedly suffused with imperial ideologies, sparked discontent amongst the students, particularly those from the Oromo community. This community, representing the largest ethnic group in Ethiopia, has repeatedly claimed that the curriculum failed to accurately portray their history and culture, leading to a sense of alienation. The crisis deepened between 2014 and 2015, when students found it increasingly difficult to continue their education due to the aforementioned issues. The situation was further complicated by financial constraints facing the students, as they reported not receiving their stipends for four years. This issue was not unique to Dire Dawa University but was also reported by students from Haramaya University, Oda Bultum University, Arsi University, and Dambi Dollo University. The lack of financial support seriously disrupted their academic progress and ability to focus on their studies.
The Current Crisis
Reports from Dire Dawa University students indicate that they are currently in a state of academic limbo. The students have not received their academic reports, a crucial requirement for their academic progression. Moreover, the university administration allegedly demanded payments of up to 20,000 Birr per student in exchange for these reports, placing an additional financial burden on the already struggling students. Compounding the problem, the students have reported instances of physical and psychological harassment, including intimidation and threats, creating a climate of fear within the campus. This has adversely affected their mental health and posed a significant obstacle to their academic pursuits. The Way Forward
In response to this crisis, the students have called for immediate action. They are demanding the prompt release of their academic reports without any further financial burden. They are also calling for an end to the harassment they have been subjected to and for the establishment of a safe and conducive learning environment. The students have underscored their primary goal: to ensure their rights to education are upheld. They have expressed their readiness to engage in constructive dialogue with the university administration and other relevant stakeholders to find a resolution to the ongoing crisis.
The student crisis at Dire Dawa University is a matter of grave concern that requires immediate attention. Educational institutions should be spaces where students are free to learn and grow without fear of discrimination or harassment. It is hoped that the relevant authorities will act swiftly to address the concerns of the students and work towards creating an environment that respects and upholds the rights of all students.
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