Since its establishment in 2011, the Tsehay Zewde Memorial Scholarship Programme (TZMSP) has emerged as a cornerstone of inclusive higher education in Ethiopia, transforming the lives of hundreds of visually impaired female students. Founded by Rotarian Aster Zaoude in memory of her late sister, the initiative has supported all female students at Addis Ababa University through financial grants, life skills training, assistive technologies, and career preparation.
On Saturday, August 8, 2026, TZMSP, in partnership with Bank of Abyssinia, celebrated its landmark 15th year anniversary at Addis Ababa University’s historic Ras Mekonnen Hall. The momentous gathering brought together former FDRE President Sahle-Work Zewde, alumni and current scholarship students, institutional partners, and esteemed guests, to honor a decade and a half of dedicated support and life changing impact.
Addis Alem Kuma, a TZMSP alumna and the programme coordinator, mobilized over 100 former students who received certificates of recognition presented by the late Tsehay Zewde’s daughters and supporting Rotary volunteers.
Furthermore, appreciation certificates were given to key institutions such as the Bank of Abyssinia, Ethiojobs, ECDD, and longtime benefactor Ms. Anna Kim, who continued her generosity by providing smartphones to new students.
The emotional center of gravity of the event was the testimonials and poetry by alumni representatives. Four graduates and one current student delivered moving accounts of their experience, navigating an academic environment designed for the sighted. One poignant highlight featured an alumna reading an original poem dedicated to Rtn. Aster Zaoude and her family, capturing the deep sense of belonging fostered by the programme.
The anniversary also featured reflective remarks from the founder, the screening of a documentary titled 15 Years’ Journey with Visually Impaired Students at Addis Ababa University, and a video interview featuring Harvard Law School graduate and disability rights advocate Haben Girma. With its alumni serving as living proof of what is achievable when systemic barriers are addressed, TZMSP enters its next chapter resolutely committed to advancing inclusive and equitable education in universities across Ethiopia.
