Visit and Briefing of 11 Students from Toronto University

Addis Ababa, Ethiopia 20 February 2013- 11 students from the Univeristy of Toronto’s New College African Studies program visited the African Union headquarters on 20th February, as part of the college’s goal of providing international and experiential learning. At the end of the trip, each student will provide a 12-page research paper relating to the trip. The students’ visit was coordinated by Professor Thomas Kwasi Tieku.

Mrs. Wynne Musabayana , Officer in Charge of the Directorate of Information and Communication (DIC) welcomed the students and presented the program of different phases of the visit. The students received briefings followed by questions and answers by resource persons from different departments of the AUC in Briefing Room 1 of the AU Conference Center.

The students were addressed by Ambassador Jean-Baptiste Natama, The AU Commission’s Chief of Staff, on the priorities of the new Commission and overall missions and goals of the African Union. Representing the Trade and Industry Department, Mr. Nadir Merah briefed the students on intra-African trade and international trade negotiations before answering the students’ questions.

The presentation on CAADP and land policies was carried out by Mr. Maurice Lorka, the CAADP Pillar 4 Advisor. Professor Maurice Tchuente, Acting Rector of the Pan African University and representing the Department of the Human Resources, Science and Technology department, answered to all concerns and questions addressed by the students regarding the Pan African University.

Later, Mrs. Wynne Musabayana, Officer in Charge of the Directorate of Information and Communication detailed all the aspects of the AU branding Campaign, which is being conducetd under the slogan: “I am African, I am the African Union”. She also explained the goals and purposes of the AU and most importantly of the Directorate.

Dr. Admore Kambudzi, Secretary of the Peace and Security Council briefed the visitors on the roles of the Peace and Security Architecture (APSA), the Panel of the Wise, and the Peace and Security Council in promotion of peace on the continent.

Mr. Molalet Tsedeke (Media Center Coordinator) discussed the various uses and aspects of the media center. The visitors proceeded to a guided tour of the new African Union Conference Centre (plenary hall and arounds), and concluded their visit in the Situation Room of the Peace and Security Department. Meretework Shawul, IT officer from the Peace and security Department, presented the responsibilities and functions of the Room.