07/12/2024
Officially Handed Over the Leadership of South Sudan Students' Union in Bahir Dar University, Ethiopia 🇪🇹 under the theme "Embracing Rule of Law, Good Governance and Peaceful Transfer of Leaderhsip "
Here is what I had to say lastly as President of South Sudan Students' Union in Bahir Dar University, Ethiopia:
I stand before you today with mixed emotions as we gather for this elections coupled handover ceremony, marking the climax of my tenure as the President of South Sudan Students’ Union in Bahir Dar University, Ethiopia
Reflection on the Journey
When I first took on this role on May 14, 2023, I was filled with a mixture of excitement and apprehension to serve my fellow compatriots in this foreign land. The challenges ahead were vast, but so were the opportunities. Together with my TEAM, we embarked on a journey to make a difference, to be the voice of the South Sudan student body not only in BDU but also in Ethiopia at large, and to foster a community where every student feels heard and valued.
Achievements and Milestones:
Today as I throw the ball to my successor, I am proud to reflect on the achievements and milestones we have reached together.
1. We have organized and transformed the image of the union by:
~Amending the constitution to a standardized constitution any students’ union is supposed to have as its guiding regulations
~Acquiring a stamp which authenticates and legitimizes official documents, communications, and decisions, ensuring they are recognized and respected within the university and beyond.
2. We have fostered Love, respect for one another and Unity by:
~Living out the slogan/motto “Oneness and Diversity”
Encouraging teamwork
~Promoting gender equality and networking
Celebrating new graduates and welcoming/orienting freshman students
3. We have established a lasting relationship with the university by:
~Closely engaging with the university administrators especially Dr. Manendante, the Director for External Relations and Partnership.
~Raising our concerns to the university and we have being heard often for instance the case of Summer holidays accommodation and feeding
~Negotiating with the university to admit our students in their first choice departments without subjecting to the system tailored for the locals, the Competition !
4. Enhanced Student Engagement, Career Development and Capacity building programs
~Recently we have launched numerous initiatives that have brought students closer to the administration and ensured their voices are part of the decision-making process.
~Plans are underway to organized workshops, seminars, and mentorship programs to support academic growth and professional development.
Gratitude:
None of these achievements would have been possible without the incredible support and dedication of many individuals. I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to:
The university administration for their unwavering support and collaboration. I want to personally recognize Dr. Manendante who has been the super glue between my administration and the university.
My fellow union members for their hard work and commitment.
And most importantly, to you, the students, for your trust and engagement.
Looking Forward:
As I hand over the reins to the new leadership, I am filled with hope and optimism for the future. I am confident that the incoming TEAM will continue to build on our successes and take this South Sudan Students’ Union in BDU to even greater heights. I urge all of you to extend the same support and enthusiasm to them as you had to me.
Personal Growth:
This experience has been incredibly enriching for me personally. It has taught me valuable lessons in leadership, resilience, and the power of community. I am leaving this role not just as a former President but as a better, more informed, and more passionate advocate for student welfare and the community at large.
Closing:
In closing, I want to remind all of you that the strength of our Student union lies in our unity and our shared commitment of excellence and inclusivity here in BDU. Let us continue to work together, support each other, and strive for a brighter future. To the University, continue building the future of these South Sudanese students for they are going to be eminent ambassadors wherever they will be and one day, they’ll contribute to this university as alumni. Last but not least, Thank you for this unforgettable journey. It has been an honor to serve as your President.
Farewell and Best Wishes:
With that, I bid you farewell as the President and welcome the new leadership with open arms and full confidence in their abilities. May our efforts continue to shine bright for the future of our stay in Bahir Dar University.
May God bless our Union and Bahir Dar University.
Thank you!
Martin Amet Liet
Former President
South Sudan Students’ Union
Bahir Dar University, Ethiopia 🇪🇹
