23 August 2025 / 17 ነሐሴ 2017
Firstly, before anything else I would like to render due honor and thanks to our Creator. Next, I would like to congratulate us all on this commemoration of the 100th anniversary of Gondar Hospital, and the 70th Anniversary of the University of Gondar. I would also like to thank Dr. Yared and Dr. Nuru for inviting me to participate in this event with you as one of the members of Emperor Haile Selassie’s family. I am also profoundly thankful for the news I received from the President of the University of Gondar Dr. Asrat Atsedewoin that the great hall of the university has been named for His Imperial Majesty Emperor Haile Selassie.
Across our entire country, Emperor Haile Selassie tirelessly built educational institutions, striving to build an Ethiopia which would be wealthy in knowledge. However, most of these institutions have not had the opportunity that the University of Gondar has had to properly memorialize him. We are hopeful that these institutions will follow the example of the University of Gondar and properly memorialize him.
I certainly believe that if we can properly honor the 100th Anniversary of Gondar Hospital, and the 70th Anniversary of the University of Gondar, then we should be able to properly honor our 3000 years of history, culture and national unity as well. It is wonderful when we are all able to celebrate the course of our history. Just as we assembled here today with such joy to celebrate Gondar’s hospital and university, we look forward to jointly celebrating many other such milestones together with love, tolerance and cooperation, which are key elements to such undertakings.
Lastly, I would like to mention the very concerning condition of health services in Ethiopia today. I know that there are many Ethiopian health professionals who willingly serve your country and people, but in light of the great need for these services in Ethiopia it is not nearly enough to meet demand. On the other hand, the philanthropic organizations have much they can contribute towards this effort.
Considering this, the Royal Ethiopian Trust (RET), beyond introducing Ethiopia’s ancient imperial legacy and culture internationally, wishes to play a role in the philanthropic and charitable field in partnership with health professionals and related organizations. You will recall that the RET recently was able to repatriate the shield of Emperor Tewodros II which had been looted by British forces. Beyond working to return other pieces of heritage, the Trust looks forward to celebrating in the near future commemorations of the Victory at Gondar in the City of Gondar itself.
I am fully confident that all will be achieved in its proper time.
Once again congratulations to Gondar Hospital on its 100th Anniversary, and the 70th Anniversary of the University of Gondar. I wish all of you a pleasant evening and thank you for this opportunity that you accorded to me.
May God bless our country and our people, and may he protect Ethiopia.
Good evening and thank you.
by HIH Prince Ermias Sahle-Selassie Haile-Selassie, President of the Crown Council of Ethiopia
