Chernet earned his bachelor degree in University of Gondar, Ethiopia. He continued to ITB’s Master’s Program in Informatics. He feels grateful for the opportunity to study in ITB. He experiences a totally different curriculum and learning atmosphere from Ethiopia in ITB.

“ITB instill entrepreneurship principles in the courses. I think this never applied in Ethiopia when it should be, especially for Informatics Program,” he said. Therefore, after going back to his homeland, he will share the insight about entrepreneurial university.

During his study in ITB, Chernet lived in dormitory. He said that he is impressed by the learning process and academic environment in ITB, especially by the grit of students who are studying while also having a job. It is a new experience to him.

“Many fellow students here are studying while also having a job, and I do not understand how they still have complete notes and good grades. That’s amazing,” he said.

He feels grateful for the opportunity to study in Indonesia. For Chernet, an opportunity to study overseas is a cultural and knowledge exchange, not merely about science.

Chernet himself is a lecturer in a university in Ethiopia. During his stay in Indonesia, Chernet tried to learn about positive values from Indonesians such as respect toward lecturers.

Indonesia and Ethiopia

As for the climate, Chernet often overlook that he is in Indonesia because Bandung’s climate feels like his home in Ethiopia. He also get the warmth of Indonesian since his first arrival in Indonesia. “Indonesians are friendly, love to smile and helpful,” said Chernet.

That custom, Chernet said, should be preserved. “Ethiopia is also consisted of various ethnicities and beliefs. We live in harmony and peace, and I believe Indonesia is also such country,” said Chernet. He believes that peace is priceless and should be preserved. Chernet hopes Indonesia and Ethiopia continue to cooperate on the field of education.

Reporter: Ferio Brahmana (Engineering Physics 2017)