Isayas Tibebu Markos

My name is Isayas Tibebu Markos. I came to Japan on July 14, 2004 from Ethiopia. I have been training at Nihon Nōgyō Jissen Gakuen for Agricultural Management in Uchihara Town since August 24th.

Ethiopia is located in the eastern part of the African continent. Its capital city is known as Addis Ababa, and it is also the capital of the AU (African United Organization). Ethiopia is a landlocked country with a population of about 60 million. Of the population, 90% lives in rural areas. There are about 83 different languages with different dialects being spoken in the country. More than 95% of its economy is based on agriculture. Organic coffee is the prime export, followed by hides and skin products, and then oilseeds.

Ethiopia is very rich in natural resources. Many wildlife animals are found in the country: niyala, walia ibex, semein fox, gilda bobon, wild ass, and about 124 different birds. Known as the "water tower" of Africa, Ethiopia is the source of many large rivers found in the continent, including the world's longest, the Nile River. The country also has many natural hot springs and natural and manmade tourist attractions. Nevertheless, due to the inevitable political struggles for the past two decades, Ethiopia is unfortunately the poorest country in Africa.

For me, Japan seems like my second motherland and I consider Ibaraki Prefecture to be my second birthplace after the Oromia state of Ethiopia. Japanese people are very kind and hospitable. I had the privilege to be introduced to Mr. Kenichi Iimura and Mr. Seino of Uchihara Town and I truly respect these two Japanese government officers' receptivity to citizens and foreigners.

Ethiopian and Japanese might share a lot of similarities in terms of cultural and social identities, but their economic situations are diametrically opposed. Ethiopia has very limited social facilities, namely educational and health institutions and road facilities. Indeed, there are only eight universities and limited colleges available for the 60 million inhabitants.

Lastly, I would like to extend my appreciation and gratitude to Ibaraki Prefectural Government for their generosity in offering scholarship to the developing countries, including of course, Ethiopia.