background
The first step to establish higher education in Ethiopia was made in 1950 with the creation of Trinity College, soon renamed the University College of Addis Ababa (UCAA). It was later renamed as Haile Selassie I University in 1962 and then Addis Ababa University in 1975 after a regime change. Since its establishment, AAU has made a remarkable contribution to the country, particularly in supplying high level skilled man/women-power and professionals in various key areas of development at times when no national professionals were available. Until very recently, it has been the only source of highly qualified professionals in the country. Its role and impact in the country’s progress in various spheres of development is far-reaching, with outstanding Ethiopians serving in international organizations within and outside the country.