New Era for Ethiopian Media as First Cohort Graduates
The first round of journalists trained under the Ethiopian Media Center of Excellence graduated today in a ceremony that also reflects the broader inauguration momentum of the initiative, marking a new chapter in the country’s effort to professionalize its media sector.
The event brought together senior government officials, media executives, development partners, and invited guests. Among those present Director of Ethiopian Media Authority,Haimanote Zeleke and Director General of the National Intelligence
and Security Service and Board Chairman of
the Ethiopian Media Authority, Ambassador Redwan Hussien underscoring the high-level attention the program has received.
The Ethiopian Media Center of Excellence was officially inaugurated on October 16, 2025, marking a significant milestone in Ethiopia’s media landscape. Established by the Ethiopian Media Authority, the center is designed to strengthen professionalism and improve the overall quality of journalism through structured capacity-building programs.
The initiative responds directly to the Authority’s mandate to enhance the competence of journalists and media leadership. It aims to evolve into an inclusive, impactful, and sustainable national hub for media development.
At its core, the center focuses on advancing professional standards through evidence-based training that promotes freedom of expression, democratic values, and media independence. The long-term vision goes beyond Ethiopia, with ambitions to contribute to the transformation of the African media landscape.
The training model combines practical, inclusive, and technology-driven approaches. Participants, who must hold at least a university degree, are enrolled in specialized certificate programs covering areas such as election reporting, financial journalism, health reporting, diplomacy, and water-related issues.
One of the center’s key roles is to bridge the gap between academic journalism education and the realities of newsroom practice in Ethiopia. It does this through hands-on training, partnerships with media houses, collaboration with journalism associations, and engagement with industry experts and technology firms. The center also works with local and African universities to ensure quality and standardization in certification.
Ultimately, the program is designed to strengthen the media’s role in nation-building. By equipping journalists with practical skills and professional standards, the center seeks to support a more responsible, credible, and effective media sector in Ethiopia.
———-
Editor’s Disclaimer:
The views and opinions expressed in articles published by Horn News Hub are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official position or editorial stance of Horn News Hub. Publication does not imply endorsement.
