A powerful partnership between faith and government is creating waves of positive change across Ethiopia, as national leaders pledge their full support for the Catholic Church's remarkable contributions to healthcare, education, and community development.

Ethiopian Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen Tiruneh recently visited St. Thomas Aquinas Institute of Higher Education, known as ECUSTA, in a high-level delegation that included the Minister of Peace, Minister of Health, and a senior advisor to the Prime Minister. The visit painted a picture of collaboration and mutual respect, with government officials praising the Church's dedication to improving Ethiopian lives.

ECUSTA stands as a shining example of the Church's commitment to practical service. The institution currently trains 416 students in Doctoral Medicine, Social Work, and Medical Laboratory Technology, preparing the next generation of healthcare professionals who will serve communities across the nation. But the Institute isn't stopping there. Plans are underway to launch new programs in Accounting and Finance, Computer Science, Economics, Nursing, and Software Engineering, reflecting a holistic vision of human development.

The warmth of the government's response was evident in Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen's words. He specifically highlighted how ECUSTA's medical training programs will strengthen Ethiopia's capacity to diagnose and treat diseases, ultimately touching countless lives. "The government will provide the necessary support to enable the institution to begin delivering its full range of services as soon as possible," he promised, signaling a commitment that goes beyond words.

Cardinal Berhaneyesus, President of the Catholic Bishops' Conference of Ethiopia and Chancellor of ECUSTA, welcomed the delegation alongside senior bishops and Church representatives. The meeting fostered open dialogue about expanding humanitarian services and modernizing healthcare delivery, with both sides working together to overcome challenges and maximize impact.

The Ripple Effect: This partnership represents far more than institutional collaboration. Each of those 416 students training at ECUSTA represents hope for families who will receive better medical care, communities that will gain access to improved health services, and a nation building stronger healthcare infrastructure. The Church's work in education and health has already improved countless Ethiopian lives, and with renewed government support, that impact is set to multiply.

The Ethiopian Catholic Church expressed deep gratitude to both the Federal Government and the Oromia Regional Government for their ongoing collaboration. Brother Kasu McFantaye, ECUSTA's President, emphasized the Institute's eagerness to develop this partnership into a strategic alliance, strengthening the Catholic Church's ability to serve Ethiopian communities through education, healthcare, and social development.

This story showcases what's possible when government and faith-based organizations work hand in hand, united by a common goal of uplifting communities and improving lives. As ECUSTA prepares to expand its programs and welcome more students, the future looks bright for healthcare and education in Ethiopia.