Higher level training in Sociology, Anthropology and Social Work in Ethiopia dates more than half a century. The Ethiopian Society of Sociologists, Social Workers and Anthropologists (ESSSWA), an umbrella of three interlinked disciplines, was founded and registered as an Ethiopian Resident Charity on 22 June 1996. Founding members of ESSSWA saw the importance of forming a unified and strong professional society than creating three weak separate associations within the same professional family. Our association has always been a beacon of progress, committed to the goals of improving professionalism, building the capacity of our members, enhancing the contributions of our disciplines to society, and benefiting the society at large. While we have made significant strides in these areas, we are acutely aware that much more remains to be done.

Over the past years, we have successfully initiated several programs aimed at advancing our disciplines. These include training workshops, research collaborations, and community engagement projects that have empowered our members and enriched our collective expertise. However, the time has come for us to adopt a more strategic approach to address the challenges that lie ahead.

Moving forward, we must take decisive action to strengthen our educational frameworks, ensuring that they are inclusive, adopt an indigenous approach, and reflective of the diverse perspectives within our society. We need to foster an environment where emancipatory approaches are not just encouraged but are a fundamental part of our practice. This will require us to embrace new methodologies and collaborate across disciplines to address complex societal issues effectively.

In addition, we need to proactively participate in shaping the future of our disciplines by actively participating in reviewing and updating curricula and establishing professional standards. By actively engaging in these efforts, we can ensure that our education system remains relevant, our graduates are well-prepared, and our professional practices meet the highest standards of excellence.

It is also important that ESSSWA builds the capacity of its members by adopting an approach of mutual learning through voluntary service. By encouraging members to share their expertise and train others in identified areas of capacity gaps, we can foster a culture of continuous professional development and collaboration. This peer-to-peer training model not only enhances individual skills but also strengthens our collective knowledge base, ensuring that all members are equipped to meet the evolving challenges within our disciplines.

Furthermore, we must strive to enhance the international standing of ESSSWA, building partnerships with global institutions and participating actively in international forums. As we navigate these challenges, let us remember that our ultimate goal is to serve society. By addressing critical issues such as conflict, community health, and urban transformation, we can make a meaningful impact on the lives of the communities we serve.

The importance of our disciplines—sociology, social work, and anthropology—has never been more evident than in the face of the dynamic social processes and issues impacting Ethiopia today. Rapid population growth, significant movements of people both within and across borders, and the ongoing transformation of urban areas present complex challenges that require our expertise in understanding and managing societal change. Additionally, the persistent and emerging conflicts, along with post-conflict reconstruction efforts, necessitate the specialized knowledge of our professionals to foster reconciliation, rebuild communities, and promote sustainable peace. As Ethiopia navigates these multifaceted issues, the insights and interventions of sociologists, social workers, and anthropologists are indispensable in creating resilient, cohesive, and thriving communities.

Ezana Amdework (PhD)

EC President

Phone: +251 111 223 450
E-mail:  info@essswa.org
Holly Trinity Theology College Building, 5th floor Office No. 502,
Opposite to AAU Arat Kilo Campus

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