Higher Education - Partnering with Eljojofe e.V

Eljojofe e.V. is dedicated to advancing education and training systems through a profound commitment to the principles of interconnectedness and holistic development. Partnering with them, we have made significant strides in higher education support, reflecting our core values of community, sustainability, and ethical governance.

Master’s Program

Developing a Master’s Program in International Relations:

In collaboration with Jimma University in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, we are pioneering an MA program in International Relations with a focus on Peace, Security, and Development. This program is designed to equip diplomats, civil servants, and professionals with the advanced knowledge and skills required to navigate the complexities of global and national diplomacy. Rooted in the principles of peace and development, our curriculum addresses multifaceted issues faced by nations both internally and globally, aligning with our vision of holistic and integrated solutions.

Department Assistance

Supporting Jimma University's Political Studies and Public Administration (PSPA) Department:

We are actively assisting Jimma University in establishing and expanding its PSPA department. Our support includes curriculum development, accreditation processes, and fostering international connections and partnerships. This initiative aims to build a robust academic framework that enhances the quality of political and public administration education.

Podcast

Facilitating Dialogue

Facilitating Global Peace and Security Dialogues:

Through our MA program and the PSPA department at Jimma University, we organize seminars and workshops that bring together diverse perspectives to discuss global challenges and opportunities. These dialogues serve as a platform for inclusive and constructive conversations, promoting collaborative solutions to pressing local, regional, and international issues.

Creating a Political Awareness Podcast: We are launching a podcast to address contemporary global issues and promote political education and mindful dialogue. The podcast aims at fostering understanding, compassion, and connection in today's polarised political landscape by integrating mindfulness and spiritual awareness into political discussions. By bringing together voices from academia, civil society, the political and spiritual spheres, this platform will explore topics that are shaping our world today, and offer an alternative approach to thinking about politics and political dialogue in an increasingly complex political and social landscape.

Research on African Spiritualities

Research into African spiritualities reveals their profound influence on community cohesion, ethical governance, and environmental stewardship. Key aspects include

  • The concept of Ubuntu, which emphasizes communal interdependence, highlights the importance of collective well-being and ethical responsibility. This principle informs our approach to education and policy-making, fostering a perspective that values the interconnectedness of all people and the environment.

  • African spiritualities advocate for a holistic view of health and environmental sustainability, promoting practices that respect and maintain the balance of natural systems. These values inspire our educational programs to integrate environmental and ethical considerations into both curriculum and practice.

  • Indigenous African mediation and reconciliation practices offer valuable insights into resolving conflicts and fostering social harmony. These practices influence our approach to dialogue and education, emphasizing restorative justice and inclusive problem-solving.

At Eljojofe e.V., our mission is to weave the principles of interconnectedness, ethical responsibility, mindful dialogue, and community engagement into the fabric of higher education and global discourse. We are committed to fostering an environment where education and dialogue serve as catalysts for peace, understanding, and sustainable development.

About the Team

  • Dr. Mitslal Kifleyesus-Matschie

    Founder & CEO, Ecological Products of Ethiopia (ECOPIA)

    Founder, Seratera Consortium and Eljojofe ev board member

    Dr. Mitslal Kifleyesus-Matschie, Ph.D. from the University of Erfurt, Germany, is a leading expert in sustainable development and peacebuilding. She was a researcher at Harvard and Sussex for seven years, focusing on strategic policy and disarmament.

    Dr. Mitslal founded Ecological Products of Ethiopia (ECOPIA), a company specializing in organic and herbal products, and Seratera, a consortium supporting African youth startups. With over 20 years of advisory experience in policy and socio-economic development, she is also Chair of the Ethiopian Diaspora Women Association.

    In response to global challenges, Dr. Mitslal is establishing an institute of international relations to address pressing issues such as climate change, AI, and peacebuilding through innovative, interdisciplinary approaches. Her work continues to integrate traditional wisdom with modern practices, as showcased in her international speaking engagements.

    For more information, visit ECOPIA and Seratera.

  • Dr. Lujain Rabat

    Dr. Rabat brings a rich multi-cultural background to this project, drawing from her diverse experiences in Syria, Lebanon, Spain, Russia, and Germany. She specializes in governance, political identity and participation, and conflict dynamics. Over the past year, Dr. Rabat has expanded her research to explore the connections between political violence, polarization, and othering. Her extensive field research experience and proficiency in both qualitative and quantitative methodologies underscore her interdisciplinary approach. Dr. Rabat's work is driven by a deep curiosity and a steadfast commitment to the scientific method.