MERSA Media Institute

26/08/2025

We are thrilled to announce the successful launch of a new publication, 'Ethiopian Journalists in the 2020s: Who they are, how they work, and what they think.'

Today's workshop brought together a dynamic group of media professionals, stakeholders, and academics for a vital discussion on the state of journalism in Ethiopia. A key highlight was the insightful reflection on the report's findings by Dr. Wendmagegn Tadesse and Maya Miskir, whose contributions sparked a rich and necessary conversation.

The report, part of the global Worlds of Journalism Study, provides a data-driven look at the challenges and realities facing journalists in the country today. We believe these findings will be a critical resource for shaping the future of the media landscape.

A sincere thank you to our partners at Fojo Media Institute for their support with this research, and to all our speakers and attendees for their active participation and valuable contributions. We look forward to continuing this important dialogue.

16/05/2025

Today, MERSA Media Institute, in collaboration with Editors Guild Ethiopia, hosted an impactful World Press Freedom Day event focusing on "Ethiopian Media in the Age of AI: Promoting Media Freedom, Ethics, and Safety". The discussions initiated today are crucial for shaping the future of Ethiopian media in the face of rapid technological advancements.

The event featured a thought-provoking panel discussion with experts who shared valuable insights on press freedom, the ethical considerations of AI in journalism, and the safety of journalists. The opening theatrical dance performance by Mankira Dance Group added a powerful artistic dimension to the day's reflections.

05/05/2025

03/05/2025

🗞️✨ Celebrating World Press Freedom Day in Hawassa! 🗣️🌍

Today, on , we’re hosting a powerful and engaging Social Fabric screening and panel discussion here in Hawassa!

Our conversations are centered around:
🎙️ The role of media in promoting freedom of expression
💡 Youth entrepreneurship and how young people are using media creatively
👩🏾‍💻 Empowering the next generation through media literacy

It’s an energizing space filled with creativity, dialogue, and vision for a more informed and free society.

Thank you to all our participants and partners making this day special.

This event is proudly organized by MERSA Media Institute in partnership with Fojo Media Institute.

03/05/2025

🎉 Social fabric at Hawassa 🎬✨

The Social Fabric screening is going incredibly well here at SouthStar Hotel! 🙌
It’s not just a film—it's a fun, interactive session full of energy, discussion, and creativity.

We’re loving every moment as we connect with the amazing people of Hawassa to talk about media literacy, social cohesion, and the power of art and dialogue to bring change.

Big thanks to everyone who's joined us so far—your energy is what makes this special! 💬❤️

This experience is made possible by MERSA Media Institute in partnership with Fojo Media Institute.

03/05/2025

🎥 Today in Hawassa! 🌞🎬

We’re excited to screen Social Fabric today in Hawassa — a documentary that weaves together stories of media literacy, social cohesion, and civic dialogue through the power of art and culture.

As we celebrate local creativity and explore how storytelling can combat misinformation and foster peace, we’re looking forward to powerful conversations and community engagement.

📍 We’re waiting for you at South Star International Hotel! Come be part of the experience.

This event is proudly brought to you by MERSA Media Institute in collaboration with Fojo Media Institute

14/04/2025

Friday at IPSS, we danced, we reflected, and we connected. 🌀✨
The screening of the Social Fabric documentary at the Institute for Peace and Security Studies was more than just an event; it was a moment of togetherness and deep dialogue.
We kicked off with an icebreaker that got everyone on their feet, literally! Dancing to different cultural beats until our hearts gave out reminded us of the rich, diverse threads that make up our social fabric.
Following the documentary screening, we had an insightful panel discussion hosted and beautifully moderated by Siham Jemal. Huge appreciation to the panelists — Hilina Abreham, Danite Woldegebriel, Selome Yohannes, and Jarra Schroijen- for their powerful contributions. From the historical perspective of social media in Ethiopia to legal frameworks, digital safety, and how women can not only exist but own digital spaces, the discussion was rich and necessary.
Special thanks to Jarra Schroijen for organizing the event and to IPSS for providing the space that allowed these important conversations to flourish.
Audience members also brought thought-provoking questions to the table, making the session even more engaging and impactful.
It was a day filled with energy, connection, and meaningful exchange.
📩 If you’re interested in hosting similar events or want to collaborate, feel free to reach out, we’d love to keep the conversation going.

21/03/2025

It’s hard to believe it’s been almost a week since our incredible panel discussion during the Social Fabric screening!
Our panelists highlighted the importance of media literacy, responsible social media use, and how digital platforms can create opportunities when used wisely.
Here are some of the key ideas they shared—let us know which one resonates with you the most! ⬇️

15/03/2025

🎙️ INSIGHTFUL PANEL DISCUSSION ON MEDIA LITERACY & EMPOWERMENT! 🌟

Following the Social Fabric screening, we had an inspiring panel discussion featuring incredible female voices:

💡 Kalkidan Zewdu Hun & Alemtsehay Kegne – Our Information Integrity Ambassadors shared their experiences in navigating the digital space and combating misinformation.

🎙️ Rehobot Ayalew bot Ayalew – A media literacy professional who highlighted the importance of critical thinking and responsible media consumption in today’s digital age.

👗 Fikrte Addis – A talented fashion designer who spoke about the power of creative storytelling in shaping narratives and promoting positive change.

The discussion centered on media literacy development, preserving peace and democracy through media, and the fight against misinformation and disinformation. It was an eye-opening conversation, encouraging students to use media as a tool for knowledge, empowerment, and truth.

A huge thank you to our panelists for sharing their wisdom and to everyone who participated in this important conversation! 🙌

15/03/2025

🎬 EMPOWERING YOUNG MINDS THROUGH MEDIA LITERACY! 🌟

Today, we had an incredible Social Fabric screening with the presence of high school students and teachers, creating a meaningful dialogue on media literacy, social cohesion, and the impact of storytelling. 🧵💡

This event was proudly brought to you by MERSA Media Institute in collaboration with Fojo Media Institute . A special thank you to Ethiopian Media Authority - ኢመብባ for their invaluable support in making this event possible! 🙌

02/03/2025

02/03/2025