'Ethiopia Reads' founder to be awarded an honorary doctorate

By a Staff Reporter

Yohannes Gebregeorgis, founder of the non-profit organization Ethiopian Books for Children and Educational Foundation (EBCEF),

aka Ethiopia Reads, will receive an honorary doctoral degree from Regis University in Denver tomorrow, it was learnt.

The presentation of an honorary degree is in recognition of the individual’s accomplishment in making a positive difference.

Yohannes Gebregeorgis, who was one of the top ten CNN Heroes of 2008, is best known for his innovative Donkey Mobile Libraries used to deliver books to rural children in Ethiopia. He is also the recipient of the 2008 Presidential Citation for International Innovation from the American Library Association.

Yohannes has been at the forefront in promoting reading and literacy in Ethiopia by establishing different types of libraries, including Portable Libraries, and by publishing children’s books based on Ethiopian culture and history in different local languages.

Yohannes has given years of his life and a great deal of his own money to spreading the love of reading to today's potential young readers in Ethiopia.

It is on rare occasions that the Regis University Board of Trustees authorizes the awarding of honorary degrees to individuals who have led lives of distinguished service and professional achievement.

To celebrate the conferring of an honorary doctorate in public service on Yohannes Gebregeorgis, Regis University’s Dayton Memorial Library has been also exhibiting photos and artifacts showcasing the children of Ethiopia and the impact of Yohannes Gebregeorgis’ work in their lives.

In addition to the photos, the exhibit included three Ethiopian processional crosses donated to the St. John Francis Regis Chapel, traditional Ethiopian dresses, wooden triptychs, dolls, baskets, pottery, and an Ethiopian toothbrush.

Various books in Amharic, English, Tigrigna, and Afaan Oromoo published by Ethiopia Reads will also be on display.

Founded in 1877, Regis University in Denver, Colorado, is one of the many leading Catholic educational institutions in the USA.

Source: Reporter