In a powerful demonstration of unity between faith, government, and academia, the Ethiopian Catholic University of St. Thomas Aquinas (ECUSTA) hosted a historic delegation at its newly constructed campus in the Lebu area of Sheger City.

The event brought together the highest levels of leadership:

• From the Government: Deputy Prime Minister H.E. Temesgen Tiruneh, Minister of Health Dr. Mekdes Daba, and Minister Advisor to the Prime Minister Deacon Daniel Kibret.

• From the Church: H.E. Cardinal Berhaneyesus Souraphiel, Metropolitan Archbishop and Chancellor of the University, alongside distinguished members of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Ethiopia.

Hosting this esteemed group was President Br. Kassu McFantaye, whose transformative leadership has been the driving force behind the realization of this state-of-the-art facility.

A Convergence of Visions

The presence of Cardinal Berhaneyesus, serving as the University Chancellor, underscored the deep institutional commitment of the Catholic Church to Ethiopia's development. Together with the Bishops, his attendance signaled that ECUSTA is a priority for the Church’s national mission in education and social welfare.

This spiritual foundation provides the bedrock for Br. Kassu McFantaye’s "Vision for Change." As President, Br. Kassu acted as the bridge between the Church’s mission and the practical realities of building a modern university. Guiding the dignitaries through the campus, he articulated a clear strategy to blend the Church’s moral legacy with cutting-edge academic and medical training.

Strengthening the National Health System

The visit highlighted the crucial role ECUSTA is set to play in the health sector. With the Minister of Health, Dr. Mekdes Daba, present, the discussion focused on how the university's medical wing will serve the public.

Br. Kassu McFantaye showcased the facility’s readiness to deploy advanced medical technologies. This aligned perfectly with the Deputy Prime Minister’s observation that the institution will "increase the country's capacity to diagnose and treat patients," effectively bridging gaps in national healthcare delivery.

Excellence as a Standard

The synergy between the Church’s values and the University’s management was evident in the facility's condition. H.E. Temesgen Tiruneh praised the "cleanliness and hygiene" of the institution, citing it as an example for others.

This accolade is a direct reflection of Br. Kassu’s operational standards, ensuring that the physical environment reflects the excellence expected of a pontifical university supported by the Bishops' Council.

A Pledge of Continued Support

The visit concluded with a consensus of support. The government, represented by the Deputy Prime Minister, pledged to provide the necessary assistance to operationalize the facility fully.

ECUSTA is profoundly grateful to the Oromia Regional Government for the land, and to our partners for their material support. With the blessing of the Church leadership and the endorsement of the State, ECUSTA, under the presidency of Br. Kassu McFantaye, is poised to become a beacon of hope and development for Ethiopia.