Interview with Bikila Tesfaye from Ethiopia, (Mtandao member # 143)

The ASWDNet (Mtandao) has grown to 143 over 6 years with a target of 200 members by end of the year. Membership is free. The Network has over 2000 subscribers. The members and subscribers are from all regions of the continent, including the 6th region (the Diaspora), and include practitioners, academics and students social work, social services and development. Mtandao proudly carries on the work of the Association of Social Work Education in Africa (ASWEA) which operated from 1965 to 1989.

In this interview, Bikila Tesfaye, responded to some written questions asked by Dr Rugare Mugumbate.

Dr Rugare Mugumbate: Could you tell us about yourself, where you come from, and what your community looks like? Also, include your family if that is okay.

Bikila Tesfaye: I am from the Gambella region, specifically Gambela City in Ethiopia. My community is characterised by its rich cultural diversity and strong sense of indigenous values.

Dr Rugare Mugumbate: How are social problems or issues solved in your family?

Bikila Tesfaye: In my family, we address social problems through open communication and collective decision-making. We discuss issues together, considering everyone’s perspective, and seek solutions that reflect our shared values. This approach fosters understanding and unity within our family.

Dr Rugare Mugumbate: How are social problems or issues solved in your community and society at large?

Bikila Tesfaye: In my community, social issues are often addressed through local leaders and community gatherings, where people come together to discuss problems and find solutions. Community leaders play a crucial role in mediating disputes and promoting initiatives that enhance social cohesion. However, the effectiveness of these efforts can vary based on community participation and available resources.

Dr Rugare Mugumbate: What would you want to improve in the way social problems are currently being solved?

Bikila Tesfaye: I believe there is a need for more structured support systems and training for community leaders in conflict resolution and negotiation skills. Additionally, increasing awareness about available resources and services could empower community members to address their issues more effectively.

Dr Rugare Mugumbate: Tell us about professional social services in your country. Who provides these services, how, and what success have they achieved?

Bikila Tesfaye: In Ethiopia, social services are primarily provided by government agencies, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), and local organisations. These services focus on areas such as education, gender, health, and community development. While progress has been made in reaching vulnerable populations, challenges such as resource limitations and accessibility remain.

Dr Rugare Mugumbate: Is there social work in your country? What is it called in your language, and what do social workers do?

Bikila Tesfaye: Yes, there is a social work education programme available in higher education institutions in Ethiopia, and we also have a social police. Social workers play a crucial role in assessing needs, designing interventions, and ensuring effective implementation of policies, particularly in addressing poverty, vulnerability, and inequality. In Amharic, social work is referred to as “ማህበራዊ ስራ.” Social workers engage in various activities, such as family counselling, community outreach, and advocacy for social justice, addressing the needs of marginalised groups.

Dr Rugare Mugumbate: Did you train in humanitarian education, social work, development work, or another profession? Where did you train, and what did you learn most? What should improve?

Bikila Tesfaye: I hold a Master of Arts (M.A.) in Sociology from Jimma University. Additionally, I was recognised as the Humanitarian Learner of the Year, achieving 100 online course certifications in one year for the 2023–2024 awards, and received a gold bandage from the Hpass. My motivation for learning stems from a deep commitment to making a positive impact in the humanitarian sector. Each course and certification has not only enhanced my knowledge but also equipped me with practical skills to address real-world challenges.

Dr Rugare Mugumbate: Tell me about your employment as a social worker or community development worker. What were your roles, and what gaps did you notice?

Bikila Tesfaye: I have a total of seven years of experience: four years in the development sector and three years at an NGO. I have a diverse background in education, community development, sociology, rehabilitation, research, and data enumeration. I have conducted data collection and analysis and demonstrated expertise in working with diverse populations, including youth, people with disabilities, and refugees. In my role as a Youth Training Facilitator, I assisted with life skills, employability habits, and entrepreneurship. For digital literacy training for out-of-school youth, I trained over 425 youths, achieving above the organisation’s target by incorporating practical exercises and field-based activities. I noticed gaps in resources and training for youth, which sometimes hindered the effectiveness of programmes.

Dr Rugare Mugumbate: What family, community, and local ethics guided your work? How about ethics from other parts of the world?

Bikila Tesfaye: My work is guided by values of respect, integrity, and community solidarity. Locally, these ethics emphasise collective well-being. Globally, I draw inspiration from principles of humanitarianism and social justice, which resonate across cultures.

Dr Rugare Mugumbate: What is your theoretical framework, that is, the theories that guide your practice? How relevant are these to the African context?

Bikila Tesfaye: As a sociologist, I utilise theoretical approaches such as systems theory and the strengths-based approach. These are particularly relevant as they emphasise community resilience and the importance of social support networks in the African context.

Dr Rugare Mugumbate: How do you envision collaborating with fellow members of ASWDNet? What recommendations do you have for ASWDNet? How did you join the network?

Bikila Tesfaye: I envision collaborating through knowledge and skill sharing, as well as joint initiatives that address common challenges in our communities. I recommend enhancing research, training programmes, and networking opportunities. I joined ASWDNet after searching for membership related to my academic and professional background and was inspired by your mission and goals.

After reading this interview, perhaps you would like to be interviewed too, please send us an email.