presents…

Afaan Oromo Immersion Project

Summer 2008

What is the AOIP?

The Afaan Oromo Immersion Project (AOIP) is a project intended to give Oromo youth- many of which were born in refugee camps or within Canada- a chance to return to their country of heritage with the purpose of learning aspects of their Oromo culture and language that they might not otherwise be able to learn in Canada. Under the guidance of the O’z Up Oromo Youth Movement of Toronto, a designated committee will give equal opportunity to Oromos or friends of Oromos between the ages of 15- 29 years of age to travel to Oromiya, Africa for a two-three month period. During this period, these two individuals will participate in volunteer work within Oromiya community schools. These persons will help educate Oromiya youth on computer skills, health/HIV awareness, and English classes. In return, these youth will be given the opportunity to learn the Afaan Oromo language and immerse themselves in the Oromo culture.

Why was the AOIP Developed?

Over the past three decades, many Oromo from Ethiopia have sought refuge status in North America because of human rights violations by consecutive state governments in Ethiopia. Because of this, many Oromo youth were born in places of exile and have never had the chance (for economic or political reasons) to return to their homeland. Although parents of Oromo youth may endeavour to teach their children the Oromo language and culture, the act of displacement has distanced many Oromo youth from their heritage. These youth have been educated within the North American education system and are currently in the process of finishing high school or post-secondary education and are thus preparing themselves for a future career. Before that second stage of their life is embarked on, it is important that they extend their cultural education as well. By sending Oromo youth in North America to their native soil, it is anticipated that they will lead a new generation of Oromo-in-exile to contribute to the well-being of their brothers and sisters at home. It is of the utmost importance that Oromo carry on the practice of teaching the Afaan Oromo language, cultural customs and oral history to future generations.

Who is Involved with the AOIP?

The O’z Up Movement of Toronto have formed a committee to outline the necessary steps to make this project a reality. Under the supervision of Abdoul Ibrahim (founder of the project), Lensa Ali (O’z Up), Susan Rice (York University Anthropology Department), and Muna Ali (PR rep for O’z Up) criteria for Oromo Youth or friend’s of Oromo to participate in this Project has begun. We are currently seeking out any other community groups in North America that would like to join in our project! Please see contact information below to find out more.

How Do I Get Involved?

Candidates must fill-out an application form that will be reviewed by this committee. The most eligible applicants will be notified of their selection for this Project on March 31^st,2008. It is important to note that this is an equal opportunity Project for all youth in the Greater Toronto Area and North America at large. Discrimination will not be tolerated.

If you are unable to be a candidate for AOIP, but still want to help us send Oromo Youth to Oromiya, you can do so by participating in fundraising activities or becoming a committee member. Please see contact information below to get involved in this exciting Project!

How Do I Apply?

To become a candidate for the AOIP, please download an application form here:

Afaan Oromo Immersion Project Application Form

Applications should be hand-delivered to the O’z Up Youth Movement at:

761 Jane Street, Suite 210

Toronto, Ontario

M6N 4B4