Ethiopia: Ethiopia Temporarily Reassigns Tigray University Students to Other Public Universities

What the report says

Ethiopia’s Ministry of Education has said it will temporarily reassign students who were enrolled at universities in the Tigray region to other public universities so they can continue their studies safely. The announcement was made in Addis Ababa by Education Minister Berhanu Nega during a meeting with students who had come to the ministry seeking a solution after being unable to resume classes because of the situation in Tigray, according to Addis Standard, which was distributed by AllAfrica.

The ministry said the move is intended to protect students and keep their education on track while “current circumstances” in the region persist. Berhanu said displaced students have the right to live and study in peace, and he urged them to prioritize their education. Senior ministry officials, including State Minister Kindeya Gebrehiwot, also took questions at the meeting.

The ministry said students would not need to visit its offices in person to register for the transfer. Instead, an online portal was expected to open on 14 September, with students asked to submit information such as their previous university, academic year and field of study. The ministry did not name the receiving universities, say how many students are affected, or indicate how long the arrangement will last.

The announcement comes amid wider concern over education in Tigray. Addis Standard reported that the regional education bureau has accused the government of attacks on schools and education facilities, allegations that have not been independently verified. The reassignment plan is meant to prevent further disruption, but it also reflects the continuing impact of conflict and insecurity on higher education in the region.