From November 27th to December 1st, 2023, five girls in grades 9-11 seized the unique opportunity to participate in the concluding event of the Media Academy for Girls in Berlin. This event was collaboratively organized with the support of ZfA, GIZ, and the Foreign Office. Our journey began on November 24th, allowing us to immerse ourselves in the vibrant city of Berlin. We explored the historic East Side Gallery at the Berlin Wall, strolled through the cultural neighborhood of Kreuzberg, and delved into the poignant exhibits at the “Flight and Expulsion” documentation center. As the day unfolded, we couldn’t resist the allure of an evening visit to a Christmas market, complete with a memorable Ferris wheel experience. Starting Wednesday, we engaged in a dynamic exchange of ideas, sharing the outcomes of previous media academies with seven other participating schools. The collaboration fostered new intercontinental friendships, broadening our perspectives. The pinnacle of the event took place on Friday, December 1st, 2023, as participants presented their achievements at a Federal Foreign Office conference themed “Feminist Foreign Policy.” What made this experience truly exceptional was the invaluable exchange with activists from around the world, the cross-pollination of ideas, and the inspiration that ensued. Returning to Addis on Saturday, we brought back a trove of new ideas and thoughts, eager to apply the insights gained during our enriching experience in Berlin.

Addis Abeba, 20. November 2023 For numerous years, the German Embassy School in Addis Ababa has championed the cause of literacy through its cherished tradition – Read Aloud Day. On Friday, November 17, 2023, the school once again brought the joy of storytelling to life, fostering a love for reading among its students. A Tradition of Literary Celebration The roots of Read Aloud Day extend beyond the borders of the school. This vibrant tradition finds its inspiration in the Nationwide Reading Day, a joint initiative by Die Zeit, the Reading Foundation, and the Deutsche Bahn Foundation. In its 20th occurrence in 2023, this annual event on the third Friday of November has been inspiring children and adults since its inception in 2004. Cultural Exchange at the Heart of Literacy Nestled in the heart of Addis Ababa, the German Embassy School stands as a beacon of educational excellence. The Read Aloud Day is not merely an event; it’s a celebration of cultural diversity, language immersion, and community engagement. The campus event brings together the entire school community, creating an atmosphere of warmth and shared enthusiasm for literature. Student Empowerment: Grade 8 Reads to KG Students One of the unique features of this year’s Read Aloud Day was the involvement of Grade 8 students reading to their younger counterparts in the Kindergarten (KG). This interactive session not only showcased the literacy development of older students but also instilled a sense of responsibility and mentorship within the school community. Beyond Words: The Impact of Read Aloud Day Read Aloud Day at the German Embassy School goes beyond the act of reading aloud. It is a comprehensive educational initiative that nurtures language skills, encourages academic engagement, and enhances reading comprehension. The day is not just an event but a journey of literary exploration, fostering learning through captivating stories. Global Connections through Reading Being an international school, the German Embassy School embraces the cultural exchange that comes with diverse language backgrounds. Read Aloud Day bridges language gaps, promoting not only literacy but also the joy of shared stories in different languages. Looking Ahead: Community Involvement and Beyond As the echoes of Read Aloud Day linger, the German Embassy School remains committed to community involvement. The success of literacy programs, such as Vorlesetag / Read Out Loud Day, highlights the school’s dedication to creating an environment where every child can enjoy storytime, fostering a lifelong love for reading. In the spirit of this literary celebration, the German Embassy School invites everyone to join hands in nurturing a generation that appreciates the magic found within the pages of a book. After all, Read Aloud Day is not just an event; it is a testament to the enduring power of storytelling in shaping young minds.

  Overnight stay of the SMV In mid-October, the SMV invited its members to an overnight stay at the school to gather and plan upcoming events, with a primary focus on the imminent Oktoberfest. To ensure maximum efficiency, SMV members organized themselves into different groups, each assigned to a specific area of responsibility. For instance, one group handled the setup of the photo booth, another curated the supporting program for the party, and others collaborated on creating a playlist. Nonetheless, everyone contributed to decorating the venue, resulting in vibrant posters, photo booth accessories, and appropriate decorations that set the stage for an unforgettable atmosphere. The outcomes of each group’s efforts were presented, and after brief adjustments, the concepts and supporting programs were finalized. However, the evening wasn’t solely dedicated to work; the objective was also to strengthen the sense of community. What better way to achieve this than with delicious pizza and engaging games? All in all, the overnight stay was a success, combining productive work with enjoyable moments, ensuring that both the sense of fun and community were well-preserved.

Addis Ababa, November 10, 2023 – As the sun set, the German Embassy School in Addis Ababa came alive with the warmth of the Saint Martin celebration on Friday, November 10, 2023. Parents, children, and school staff gathered for an evening filled with cultural festivities, community engagement, and a bit of good food. The campus celebration, known as Sankt Martinsfest, commenced a bit before sunset. Parents accompanied their children, creating a vibrant atmosphere that resonated with the spirit of togetherness. As the school community converged, kids delighted in sipping fruit punch and relishing hotdogs, while parents savored the rich flavors of mulled wine. The heart of the celebration kicked off in the school garden, where the main event began. Live singing set the tone as parents, children, and school staff gathered. The kids, with candles aglow, walked around one of the school buildings, proudly holding up their lanterns. The procession then made its way to the soccer field, where the legend of Saint Martin unfolded. In a scene echoing compassion and selflessness, Saint Martin, portrayed by a man on a horse, circled around a beggar lying on the floor. The poignant moment of sharing his cloak, symbolizing warmth and generosity, came alive as Saint Martin dismounted from his horse to provide comfort to the shivering soul in need. Following the reenactment, the children eagerly ran onto the field to receive their Saint Martin treats, adding an element of excitement and joy to the evening. The night resonated with the melodic tunes of singing and the infectious laughter of children and parents alike. It was a cultural celebration that not only highlighted Saint Martin traditions but also fostered a sense of community engagement within the school community. The event, marked by the Lantern Parade or “Laternenumzug,” showcased the creativity of the children as they proudly carried their illuminated lanterns. This children’s activity added a whimsical touch to the evening, creating lasting memories for all. As we basked in the warmth of this cultural celebration, it became clear that the Deutsche Botschaftsschule Addis Abeba had successfully woven together Saint Martin traditions, customs, and the school’s commitment to fostering a strong sense of community. In the midst of campus festivities and school celebrations, the Sankt Martinsfest at Deutsche Botschaftsschule Addis Abeba proved to be a culinary delight as well. Traditional treats added flavor to the evening, creating a sensory experience that complemented the cultural richness of the celebration. In the spirit of maintaining traditions and customs, the school event embodied the essence of Saint Martin’s legacy, fostering an environment where children’s crafts and activities for kids became integral parts of the cultural tapestry. The Sankt Martinsfest at Deutsche Botschaftsschule Addis Abeba was not merely a school celebration but a testament to the school community’s commitment to cultural engagement, unity, and the joyous celebration of traditions. As the lanterns glowed in the night, the spirit of Saint Martin’s legacy filled the school grounds, making a lasting impression on everyone in attendance.