Last Friday marked a memorable day for the Dandii Boru community. Teachers, staff, and administrators embarked on an enriching experience-sharing tour at the Lebawi International Academy, located near Torhayloch in Addis Ababa. From the moment our school bus arrived at the gate, the warm welcome from the academy’s friendly and accommodating team set the tone for a day filled with inspiration and new ideas.
A Warm Welcome and Thought-Provoking Introduction
Upon arrival, we were greeted by Professor Panos Hatziandreas, the Head of School, and Mr. Fasika Yimam, the Deputy Head of School. The morning session began with an introduction that delved into the ethos of Lebawi International Academy and the philosophy behind its name. Professor Hatziandreas shared the academy’s humble beginnings as a full-funded charity organization that started with just 25 students. He explained how extensive research into Ethiopia’s rich educational history—tracing records back to the 19th Century Ethiopian Calendar—laid the foundation for the school’s vision.
The academy’s journey is deeply rooted in a commitment to honor all of humankind—a principle that transcends age, wealth, and race. Drawing inspiration from African philosophers such as John Mbiti, known for his critical work on what it means to be African, and from the enlightened thoughts of Zera Yacob, Lebawi’s founders sought to challenge the conventional “banking model” of education. They advocate for an educational experience that nurtures individuality and respects the intrinsic value of every person. This core pillar, “all of humankind should be honored,” was evident in every corner of the academy—from the classrooms to the interactions among students.
A Day Full of Interactive Learning
The day’s itinerary was rich with diverse activities. We engaged in a dynamic group discussion where ideas flowed freely, with participants asking and answering questions that sparked further insights. Our teachers had the unique opportunity to observe innovative classroom practices and to gain a deeper understanding of how education can be both inspiring and transformative.
Meanwhile, our school’s medical staff explored the academy’s clinics, gaining valuable insights into how comprehensive care is integrated into the educational environment. A particularly informative session was led by Dr. Mulugeta, the Head of the Quality Assurance Office, who offered a detailed presentation on the administrative functions that support the school’s mission. This glimpse into the operational backbone of Lebawi provided a holistic view of how educational excellence is maintained behind the scenes.
A Musical Finale
After a satisfying lunch, the group reconvened for a reflective session. We shared our takeaways and discussed how the insights from Lebawi could be applied back at Dandii Boru. Just when we thought the day had reached its peak, the academy’s Head of School, Professor Panos Hatziandreas, surprised everyone by joining the Friday afternoon jam session. Alongside students and musical staff, he led an impromptu performance that perfectly encapsulated the school’s vibrant, creative spirit.
Looking Ahead
We left Lebawi International Academy not only with fresh ideas and renewed passion but also with a deeper commitment to nurturing our own community. The day’s experiences have already inspired plans to integrate these insights into our classrooms and to host similar collaborative events at Dandii Boru School in the near future. We eagerly anticipate welcoming our friends and colleagues back home, ready to share and expand upon the transformative lessons of the day.
In reflecting on our visit, one thing is clear: education is not merely about academic achievement but about cultivating respect, creativity, and individuality. At Lebawi, and now at Dandii Boru, this philosophy continues to guide our journey—a journey that promises to enrich the lives of our students, teachers, and the entire community.