Alpha Eritrean Engineers Magazine

FEBRUARY 2017
VOL 7 NO. 1
JEWELS OF A SOCIETY
CARE IS THE ONLY SOURCE REQUIRED

Educator Beyene Zayid

KIND AND HUMBLE HEART

IMPACTFUL TEACHER AT A CRITICAL TIME
AEEC gathered to
celebrate National
FOUNDATIONAL PUSH ON MY LIFE
Engineers Week on SUCCESS THROUGH EDUCATION
Sunday 02192017 ENJOYED TEACHING IN ST. JOSEPH SCHOOL
at MLK Restaurant

e
Located in Oakland
California
AEEC | October 2011 1
CONTENTS AND CONTRIBUTORS EDITORS
JEWELS OF A SOCIETY SEBLE GEBREMEDHIN, M.S. IN PSYCHOLOGY
BY YOSIEF WOLDEMARIAM
CARE IS THE ONLY SOURCE REQUIRED DR. ADIAM WOLDEGERGISH, PH.D IN
BY ROBEL KAHSAY MOLECULAR BIOLOGY
KIND AND HUMBLE HEART SAMUEL FESSEHAYE, B.A. IN ELECTRICAL
BY SELAM MESGHINA
ENGINEERING
IMPACTFUL TEACHER AT A CRITICAL TIME
BY FITSUM RUSSOM FILIPOS ABRAHAM, M.S, IN SOFTWARE
FOUNDATIONAL PUSH ON MY LIFE ENGINEERING AND
BY GHERMAY KAHSAY
YOSIEF WOLDEMARIAM, B.A. IN ELECTRICAL
SUCCESS THROUGH EDUCATION
ENGINEERING
BY AMANUEL G/BRHAN
ENJOYED TEACHING IN ST. JOSEPH SCHOOL
BY ANDAI TESFAY

AEEC | February 2017 1

~
A
E
E JEWELS OF A SOCIETY
M Besides possessing few be an important profession and educators were
~ natural resources a placed at the pinnacle of the society where they
A significant force is have been traditionally respected and revered. One
E required in creating a of my favorite times to reflect (other than my
E healthy, peaceful, collage years) is during the beginning of my high
M patriotic and productive school years back in Asmara, Eritrea. A time where
~ society. The forces, teachers were fulfilling the professed aims of their
A amongst others, that profession.
E contribute the most in
E
creating and shaping a Of course, it was tumultuous time considering what
M
great society are none was happening during this particular time.
~ other than the However, in the grand scheme of things and the
A
professions of outcome of this vicious time it didnt mean all that
E
educators, physicians, scientists, engineers and of much. I did not realize it back then but it was the
E
course soldiers. It is self-evident that each of these beginning of a wonderful journey of fulfilling one of
M
dynamic forces contribute to society's well-being. lifelong dreams that kept shining light onto my life.
~
However, one would argue that educators are Besides the magnificent parents who insisted on
A
significant force and have the most to offer education, I owe it to a multitude of teachers who
E
considering of their knowledge, wisdom and their were part of the rewarding journey.
E
M ability to bring about a passion to their profession
that positively impacted a society. I often think of them with a deep sense of
~
admiration. It would be doing disservice to the
A
E A passion that helps mold and educate future profession of teaching to rank those motivating
E generations of intellectuals and scholars. It is teachers and no one was more important than the
M certain educators profession is a noble and the others. However, one exceptional by the name of
~ only profession that creates, shapes and enlightens Abraham Zemui (wedi Zemui) stands out as
A all other professions. History is abundant with
extraordinary. He was a great mathematician and
narratives of teaching profession as the paradigms mathematics educator and it was a privilege and
E
or jewels of society. In some cultures teaching special opportunity having a great one at that
E profession is distinguished as the primary architect juncture my life during my learning development at
M of their societies, and rightly so. Geza Kenisha Secondary School.
~
A Looking back, a vibrant system of public education Great teachers go above & beyond and are able to
E was part of the societal structure for those who bring the best out of every student they encounter.
E pursued it, at least in the cities of many parts of the I am sure many of us had that one exceptional
M country. Consequently teaching has been known to teacher that inspired us more than any other. Wedi
~
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AEEC | February 2017 2

~
A Zemui (son of Zemui) was that exceptional I have had experiences of teachers who end lessons
E educator for me. early and let the class do what it wanted. However,
E Dr. Zemui always kept the class going.
M He was often fun and apparently always at the top
~ of his teaching game. Using mathematics questions to keep the class
A interactive and help drew out our understanding of
E As most influential and inspiring educators, Dr. the problems and also explained the topic in-depth.
E Zemui was passionate about his profession and I still remember when he questioned us and made
M mathematics. He was not only teaching us the us think further about the methods we came up with
~ subject but also the shortcuts and secret methods and challenged us if our methods or ways of solving
A on how to approach a problem for satisfactory the problems were workable. He inspired and
E result in an efficient way. He was patient towards helped us think from various prospective and
E
us, his students, and provided us help whenever we explore other alternatives to see the problem.
M
had difficulties and needed support. He was I am glad I was one of Dr. Zemuis students and I
~ diligent and always doing the very best to thank him so much for his professionalism,
A
make sure each of us in the class understood the inspiration, dedication and all he had done for us.
E
problem and also making the lessons enjoyable
E
with his friendly and sometimes sarcastic tone. He enriched my academic experiences and
M
His approach to the art of teaching was the vital I appreciate him! It was a pleasure and privilege to
~
element that kept the class interactive and there have been one of his students and it would hardly
A
wasnt a dull moment where he let the spirit down. be an exaggeration of possibility, if not a probability
E
E of his vast number of students to assume I would be
M I have had experiences of teachers who end lessons the only one with such perspective.
early and let the class do what it wanted. However,
~
Dr. Zemui always kept the class going. ~ Engineer Yosief Woldemariam
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ALPHA ERITREAN ENGINEERS MAGAZINE
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AEEC | February 2017 3

 Comments & Suggestions
Page

Thank you for sharing with me the June issue of Alpha Eritrean
Engineers Magazine.

I believe it is a good start to a well needed magazine. I enjoyed the

inspiring article as well your attempt to connect those who need jobs to
the job opening opportunities.

On a separate note, if I may, please be a bit more critical on the editing.

There were a number of mistakes (such as using BMI & BIM, CIVL to
mean CIVIL etc...). I hope it is taken in the good intention that it is meant.

Daniel

Job well done. Always glad to see this publication. I will work really hard
on ways I will honor my comments, thank you for giving them such
value.

Danyom Berhane

ALPHA ERITREAN ENGINEERS

AEEC | February 2017 4

 The teacher who had influenced me the most was Mr. Abdel Hadi. He was
mathematics teacher in High school. He loved to teach, cared about his students
and always came well prepared and with high energy. He taught with
enthusiasm and charisma. Abdel Hadi knew that we were capable of doing more
and he always pushed us to the best of our abilities.
One of the unique things I remember about him is that at the end of each lessen
he used to give us a challenging problem that needed be solved in class within 1-
2minutes. Everybody would put serious effort to solve these problems and
usually not more than 1 or 2 students got the solution. The funny thing was that
you would be credited only 1 point. This instilled in me the love for maths and
for problem solving.
The other thing that I cannot forget about him is that he gave each of us nicknames. I hope none of my old
friends will be offended if I disclose some of the names Socrates, Germany, sister carmela, etc There was
never a dull or boring class with him. Although he is no longer with us he impacted many of his students. May
he rest in peace.

I believe there is no student who wont remember him.

~ Engineer Senait Amanuel

Personally, the teacher I admired most during my education pathway was

education (St. Mary School in Asmara). I would like to start this tribute by
discussing what students look for in teachers. Students in most cases look to
teachers as being role models. Each of us has at least one teacher in our life who
leaves a great influence on our personality. Good teachers not only help students
with their studies but also mold their overall personality. Teachers put in their
best efforts in an attempt to teach their students all they can, only with the wish
that they do well in life. I would like to thank Memher Yosief who has, in many
ways, touched my life. I want to thank this teacher whom I admire a lot and had a
great ambition for teaching.

He inspired myself and other students to succeed and encouraged us to do well. I would say that because of
him I developed my strong inclination towards the field of engineering.

I would like to mention that I had some wonderful teachers in my past too, but I know that my elementary
school years with Memher Yosief were the best years I will never forget. In addition to his knowledge of the
subject matter and how to teach, he was caring, supportive, sincere, kind and funny. He was a great influence
and role model to many students at St. Mary School. I know there are not enough words to describe my
gratitude and my thankfulness to Memher Yosief. However, I want to thank him for aspiring me to be the
person I am now.
~ Engineer Medhanie Tecle

AEEC | February 2017 5

 My name is Filipos Abraham and I am real time software engineer in the Boeing B1
program at the Tinker Air Force Base.

Thinking back, who was the most influential teach in my life is a tough topic, I need to
be extra careful in identifying the most influential with favorite teachers. There were
many teachers I liked and respected. How influential they were, I dont know. Going
back to my High School days there were teachers I liked, but didnt respect and
teachers I respected, but didnt like. I think some of the teachers that were "cool or
funny" played a part in me wanting to be a teacher.

They were fun people. I think that is why I liked them and thought they were cool or
funny. They would talk to you and be interested in you and ask how you were doing.

You could joke around with them. At the time these were my favorite teachers. I remember thinking that I wanted
to be a teacher, because I liked those teachers so much. It is important to ask; from which of these teachers did I
learn? Was it from these cool teachers I learned the most? I probably learned more from the teachers I respected
than the ones I thought were cool. It was until college that I considered this very important when my high school
math skill became my strength and the main player in my carrier. Fun was much more important to me.

I am asked the question of most influential teacher or who and when did learn the most, My high school math
teacher, Isaias Haile , class jumps to my mind. Teachers are the real mentors in a students life. They teach us not
only subject; but also discipline and morality, Isaias was one such teacher. He was the best teacher I have ever
known in my life. He always sticks to his lesson plans and test plans. He never postponed any of his duties and
because of him my math skill became strong to this day. A teacher is definitely the backbone for a students
achievement and enhancement. Isaias Haile was the best example for this. A teacher is one who understands a
students mentality and tries to bring the best out of him. There is no big force that is necessary to kindle the spark
inside a student. A teacher can make a student a great achiever. Isaias Haile is also one of inspiration to many young
American of Eritrean origin. He is now certified & certifying instructor and teacher in the United Space Alliance,
NASA Johnson Space Center, Houston TX.
~ Engineer Filipos Abraham

Hard to reach doesnt have to mean hard to

do

A
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C

Bringing the best and the brightest together

AEEC | February 2017 6

AEEC AEEC

. Sense of humor from engineers prospective

AEEC ~ AEEC ~ AEEC ~ AEEC ~ AEEC ~ AEEC ~ AEEC ~ AEEC ~ AEEC ~ AEEC ~ AEEC

AEEC ~ AEEC ~ AEEC ~ AEEC ~ AEEC ~ AEEC ~ AEEC ~ AEEC ~ AEEC ~ AEEC ~ AEEC ~
Marriage of antennas

Two antennas got married - the wedding was lousy, but the reception was outstanding.

Forgetful atom

Two atoms are walking down the street, and one says to the other, "Wait, wait, we have to
go back. I've lost an electron somewhere."

The second atom says, "Really? Are you sure?"

To which the first atom replies, "Yes. I'm positive."

An engineer and Safety

Before studying engineering, if someone asked me what 1+1 is, I would have said "2."
Now, I'd say "I'm pretty sure it's 2, but we'd better make it 3 just to be safe."

An engineer, a statistician, and a physicist are out hunting

An engineer, a statistician, and a physicist are out hunting. They spot a buck, and each take
turn to try and bag it.
The physicist goes first. He pulls out his lab book and quickly calculates the trajectory of
the bullet, assuming it is a perfect sphere in a vacuum. The bullet falls 20m short of the
deer.
The engineer goes second. He pulls out his engineers pad and book of projectile
assumptions. After a few minutes he's ready, he takes aim, and he fires. The bullet lands
20m passed the deer.
The statistician leaps in the air shouting, "We got it!"

https://www.reddit.com/r/EngineeringStudents/comments
~

AEEC | February 2017 7

~
A
E
E
Care is the only source required
M Successful educators high school classmates would agree on how much
~ shoulder the Memhir Beyene cared for us, how many make up
A responsibility to identify classes we had to attend on Saturdays to cover
E potential in each student more material, his energy and passion for teaching.
E and inspire accordingly. There is no question that the solid background in
M This makes teaching one maths he helped me build during my early high
~ of the hardest professions school years was critical for success in subsequent
A which requires a great school years, and I am really grateful for that.
E amount of energy. In my
E opinion, care is the only source of this required It is safe to say that the majority of my teachers in
M
energy. In other words, the teacher with this amount all school years cared and used to teach us as if
~ of energy is the one who cares a lot for students. they were our parents, brothers and sisters. Some
A of these great educators are: Memhir Zeray (high
E
During my school years, I was fortunate enough to school/physics/Santa Anna), Dr. Mehretab Aboy
E
have many such caring educators. For high school, I Tegadalay (physics/University of Asmara, UoA),
M
went to Santa Anna in Asmara, and my maths Dr. Ghebreberhan (physics/UoA), Dr. Robert Van
~ teacher Memhir Beyene tops my list of great Buskirk (physics/UoA), Dr. Abraham Zemuy
A
teachers. When I think about it now, it is like he (maths/UoA), Dr. Ghide (maths/UoA), Dr. Kiflu
E
turned on the mathematical switch in my mind (maths/UoA). This is by no means an exhaustive
E
which had never been on. Prior to entering high list but some of the educators I can remember.
M
school, I always thought math was my least favorite
~
subject, and my math scores were poorer compared During college years at University of Asmara, I was
A
to others. In my first year of high school, 9th grade, I fortunate to have Dr. Van Buskirk as professor and
E
E chose to sit all the way back on the last desk of the a good friend. He introduced me to research
M classroom to avoid class participation. It worked methodology, helped me develop computational
with most teachers but not with Memhir Beyene skills and guided me through the process of finding
~
A since he insisted participation from all students and graduate scholarship in the US.
E was picking students randomly to answer questions.
E I remember how he used to praise students who Those are the best educators I was fortunate enough
M gave correct answers and how happy those students to have in my school years, and I am very thankful
~ were. for the care and energy they offered and all of their
A lessons. I admire AEEM for taking the initiative and
E I knew it was only a matter of time for anyone to get allowing me to write this appreciation piece.
E picked to answer a question, but I was not prepared
M when I was picked. It can only be a matter of chance ~ Dr. Robel Yosef Kahsay
~ that I was able to answer the question and get his
A bravo approval. Next morning, I opened my math
E
E
M

textbook to work on my homework and I couldnt

believe how easy everything was. Just like that,
maths became my favorite subject! I am sure all my

AEEC | February 2017 8

~
A Kind and humble heart
E
E At Eastern Virginia
M Medical School (EVMS), it
~ became such a blessing
A and a privilege to be
E taught by Dr. Paul F.
E Aravich, a professor in the
M department of Pathology
~ and Anatomy. It all started
A in 2005 when I got a
E phone call saying that I
E had been accepted to the
M program at EVMS. Extremely excited, I found myself
~ already preparing the move I was about to make
A from Colorado to Virginia. I gave a notice to my job in
E Colorado that I was leaving for this once in a lifetime
E opportunity and packed a few belongings.
M from, or if they knew how to say "Hello" in that
~ A single mother of three kids all under ten years
A old, I was not aware of what I had really gotten
E myself into. When I first arrived to Virginia, I did
E not know anyone. I had to rely on school and
M daycare for my children so that I could maintain my
~ studies at EVMS.
A supported minorities to go to medical schools.
E There were many times where I would have to
E leave class early just to pick up my children from
M their school and daycare by six. One of the classes
~ that was held later in the day was my anatomy
A class/cadaver lab. I failed my very first exam in that
E class, and I found myself in terror. I thought I would
E get kicked out of the program. The professor
M noticed that I would leave early most of the time
~ and so one day, he called me to stay after.
A
E He was curious as to why I would leave class early,
E and why I was not doing well in class. I explained to
M him I would leave to pick up my children which left
~ me to rely on books and YouTube videos to learn
A
E
E
M
AEEC | February 2017
about the human body. Dr. Aravich, my professor,
promised me that he would help me during lunch
time two days a week to work on studying the
cadavers. He also got the aid of other students who
completed the class, who worked as teaching
assistants, to help me and other students out. He
even let me do my exams earlier so that I could
make it in time to pick up my children. He truly
cared for all of us.
In his lectures, he usually called students up to the
podium to explain how certain body parts worked
and any related diseases and their treatments.
Every time he called on a foreign student, he would
try to get them comfortable. He would ask the class
if they knew where that particular student was
student's language. Dr. Aravich helped me get A's in
his class. He got me really comfortable in the
program, and eventually got me to graduate with
one of the highest accomplishments in the program.
He was one of the professors that helped and
Because of his kind and humble heart, our class
nominated him to be our guest speaker at our
graduation ceremony. Without him, I wouldn't be
where I'm at right now and I most likely would not
have been able to graduate from the program.
~ Selam Mesghina, Senior
Associate at TransAmerica
9
YOU HAVE TO BE A NATIVE OR JUST VISITED TO BE FAMILIAR WITH THE ABUNDANCE
OF NATURALLY PRODUCED, RICH IN COLOR AND SWEET SMELL OF FRUITS AND
VEGETABLES WITHIN REACH OF EVERY HAND THAT MAKE THE MARKET LOOK LIKE A
GARDEN FULL OF COLORFUL FLOWERS.

Photo by ngari.norway

Eritrea purely magnificent

We should all be eating fruits and vegetables as if our

lives depend on it because they do. 10
AEEC | February 2017

~ Dr. Michael Greger

~
A
E An impactful teacher at a critical time
E
M Where we end up and who person beyond her classroom.
~ we become in life depends
Recognizing my effort and desire to succeed, Mrs.
A on our parents and
Rogers took personal initiative to be my mentor
E teachers. We only have
beyond teaching me math. Mrs. Rogers is the first
E two parents, but many
person that asked me who I wanted to be and brought
M teachers. We all have a
the concept of university to me. When Mrs. Rogers
~ favorite teacher or
asked me what I wanted to become, I responded
A teachers who are very
Engineer. My basis for this response was the
E impactful on the adults we
Eritrean cultures respect and knowledge of the two
E become. In my case, it is
most popular professions, Doctors and Engineers.
M Mrs. Marilyn Rogers, my
~ 9th grade math teacher at Roosevelt Junior High in San Mrs. Rogers brought me out of my shell and gave me
A Diego, California. confidence at the most critical and challenging
E Before going to show how Mrs. Rogers influenced the moment in my life. She made me see beyond the
E engineer I have become, let me give you a little moment and into the future. She gave me hope and
M background. In October of 1987, my family and I had confidence. Thanks to the foundation, confidence and
~ just arrived to the USA without any knowledge of vision Mrs. Rogers gave me during my 9th grade math
class and continued mentoring, I was able to earn
A English except the alphabet and some basic words. I
good grades in all of my high school years. I was
E was placed in 9th grade despite only having formal
admitted to the one of the worlds prestigious
E schooling up to 5th grade in Eritrea. Starting school in
universities, the University of California, San Diego
M the 9th grade in the USA was very challenging for me
(UCSD) and graduated with a Bachelor of Science in
~ because my knowledge of English was very poor. Electrical Engineering. Since my graduation from
A Initially I struggled with all my classes, but I got UCSD in 1996, I have had a successful 20-years career
E better quickly in Mrs. Rogerss math class. I guess as a Product Engineer in the Semiconductor Industry
E math is universal and can be done even without in Silicon Valley.
M understanding the English language. Even after 29
~ When I look back at the challenges I faced in the 9th
years, I still remember a memorable exchange I had
A grade, I couldnt imagine where I am today. However,
with Mrs. Rogers. I was reviewing my quiz mistakes
E thanks to Mrs. Rogerss critical intervention, my
with Mrs. Rogers when I realized I made a simple
E parents tremendous support, and my commitment, it
mistake. I expressed myself with a new word in
M has become possible. My career as an engineer is a
vocabulary: Shit! I just picked it up from hearing
direct result of their efforts and support. While we
~ other kids, and I didnt know the meaning of the
A come to expect our parents positive influence in our
word. It made Mrs. Rogers burst into laughter.
E lives, it is amazing when a teacher has this significant
Thinking I was being funny, I used the same word
E impact. I wish everyone has a teacher or mentor like
again during another exchange. This time she didnt
M Mrs. Rogers in their life. And for some of us, we are
laugh and asked me, Do you know the meaning of
now in a position to impact peoples lives similar to
~ that word? I responded that I did not know. This is
the way Mrs. Rogers enhanced my life and education.
A the moment when Mrs. Rogers became more than just
E my math teacher and started to influence me as a
~ Engineer Fitsum Russom Keflezighi
E
M

AEEC | February 2017 11

A
E Foundational push on my life
E
M I am sure that most of us
~ have had great teachers
A at school or in some
E instructional role in our
E past lives that we can
M really appreciate and
~ remember fondly the care
A and or pivotal role they
E played in our education. I
E have been blessed all my
M life to have run into great teachers and educators
~ that have played crucial roles throughout my
A primary, secondary and post-secondary education. I
E can remember individual teachers in each grade that
E were pivotal in my life or career. There are so many
M but I want to focus on a couple of them on this
~ article.
A participation beyond class-room work but
E I would like in this quick write-up to remember my
E seventh and eighth grade home-room and math
M teacher Ms. Fry (RIP) at Lincoln Junior High school
~ in Washington, DC. Mrs. Fry really had a
A foundational push in my life and interest in
E learning mathematics and to try and excel at it. She
E went out of her way to work with us and to ensure
M we were learning and exceling in mathematics in
~ very detailed ways. I remember how much practice
A she made us do in class and worked with us after
E school to memorize and apply things like the
E quadratic equation shapes (which I still remember
M
to this day because of her) and memorizing and
~ figuring out algebraic approaches and formulas for
A geometric shapes.
E
E
I think she knew then that if we were able to do
M
well in mathematics at that young age, that our
~ lives would have a trajectory that would have many
A
benefits from education.
E
E
M
AEEC | February 2017
She was right; it came in handy for everything there
after including propelling me towards the direction
of what post-secondary education I did.
Another foundational teacher in my life was during
my days at the University of Maryland at College
Park when I took one of the first ever classes in
formal Geographic Information Systems (GIS) back
in the early 1990s. I remember Dr. Thompson
(RIP) who was pivotal in my continuing my
education in GIS changing my major from Computer
Science. GIS is essentially applied Computer
Science intermixed with Geography.
I really excelled in his class not only because of how
well organized and caring his teaching style was
but for the fact that he was so encouraging my
introducing me to a field I have made my living in
for the last 22 years continuously learning and
advancing in my career. Knowing that Ii had taken
several years of computer science courses and was
comfortable around computing technology, he
essentially allowed me to play Teaching Assistant
when it came out technical issues other students
had. That made encouraged me and made me feel
that I had something contribute to the class beyond
simply being a lay student. That had a lot to do
with my continued interest in GIS.
There are many teachers in our lives and they have
deep impact in how we end up living for better or
worse. I have been fortune to have run into many
great teachers in my life like Mrs. Fry and Dr.
Thompson.
~ Ghermay Araya, CEO
Light Technologies, Inc.
12
 ALPHA ERITREAN ENGINEERS
MAGAZINE

AEEC | February 2017 13

~
A
E
E Success through education
M One of the teachers who has This is because I worked hard to get good grades
~ influenced me the most during my university days and won a scholarship,
A early on my life was Mr. this was the 2nd opportunity to get out of the
E Zerai, Memher Zerai as we continent. This again confirms Mr. Zerias words
E used to call him called him that hard work pays off and education is a way out
M back then. He was a middle for most of us from the 3rd world to better
~ school geography teacher in ourselves and significantly change the direction of
A Santa Ana, and most of the our lives.
E students from my batch
E remember him as a wise When I was in Europe in graduate school, I met my
M and intelligent man. next role model teacher who influenced me further
~ on how to be a leader and how to make important
A My batch was the only group who joined Santa Ana decisions at work and in life. Professor Stanisaw
E at 7th grade, all others joined at 9th grade. He always Boryczka was my adviser in graduate school and
E told us that the only way to success was through he instilled in me hard work, discipline and
M education and we should work hard to get a higher decision making who greatly helped me in my
~ education opportunity in a country with only a few transition from individual contributor to managing
A percentage of high school students make it to the projects and people at work and making important
E university. His words rang in my ears whenever I decisions in my life. Professor Boryczka believed
E
saw him, even though I didnt understand the in data driven decision making but always told us
M
consequence of his words until later time. to be true to ourselves and trust our guts and be
~
reasonable doing it.
A
The only reason I am where I am is because of the
E
opportunity I got through education. If it was not I sincerely appreciate and Im forever in debt of
E
for the education I was fortunate enough to get, I my teachers, who taught me a lifelong lesson
M
would not know where I would be. But I know this, which I used to further my goals and improve my
~
I would probably not be in Silicon Valley enjoying a life.
A
dream carrier.
E
E ~ Engineer Amanuel Gebrebrhan
M For me, this was exactly what happened. I joined a
university in Ethiopia after high school, my first
opportunity and first step out of the country and
then after completing my university education in
Ethiopia, I was recruited by the same university to
be a laboratory instructor. During my brief stay at
the university, I got my next opportunity to go to
Europe to further my education.

AEEC | February 2017 14

 Educator Beyene enjoyed teaching in St. Joseph school.

St. Joseph School in Keren, one of Eritrean city, was founded by an Italian missionary father Adriano Celentano who
came on November of 1946 and developed an idea of stablishing a school within eight months of his stay. After
consulting with his supervisors he was encouraged by getting an approval of his request and also authorizing him to
study the question of timing and practicality of the place.

St. Joseph School grew quickly as stone upon stone was put in place providing a beautiful new building for the first
150 children whom began classes in April 1950. Before Brother Beyene joined the De La Sale Christian Brothers he
was following his elementary school at St. Joseph by walking on foot 10 Kilometers one way every week. As a
member of the De La Sale Christian brothers, he was assigned to teach in a prestigious Catholic School, founded half
century ago. Much as he loved the towns charm, the school setting, and beautiful weather, Beyene enjoyed teaching
in St. Joseph school. The teaching career was the most important establishment, he had at heart above all others. His
life had definitely changed beyond all recognition. Those who knew him during his career as an educator and the
formative years as a religious member of a congregation, they would exactly be confused.

As he took more of an interest in his educational career, he made ready everything before entering to his class. In
order to take care of his students he prepared himself physically and spiritually. To manage his classes he outlined a
strategy. The lesson plan, the register and educational instruments were side by side. One time to correct the
homework and other time to organize the lesson plan according to the timetable.

Before he joined Eritrean Peoples Liberation Front (EPLF), his two favorite activities in life were to play basketball
and stay with his students in class. The friend of youth and teenagers, Beyene measured his time by the love and
dedication that were fueled by his zeal. In his native town he served the poor children. He totally gave himself
wholeheartedly. Up to now he is well remembered by his students and I will never ever forget my best teacher and
he is and will always be in my mind as far as I am breathing.

St. Joseph School opened my eyes. I understood how someone could actually be somebody. It was a place where
students from different background came together. It is/was one of the famous schools in Eritrea. There was a great
competition among the students. Studying hard was so necessary for achieving the best grades and ranks that
eventually became our only concern. It was all about exploring the future.

These opportunities, however, will never be achieved without well dedicated teachers who are/were devoted their
whole life educating poor people. Generally Christian brothers are well educated and well organized in teaching
professionalism. However, some people go beyond certain measures to serve their community as Lasallians do.
Their mission is teaching and are not allowed to marry. Although Beyene was so happy with this mission, he
gradually started to deviate towards the struggle to join the rebels. As Eritrean he could not able to hide the love he
had for his people. He believed that to fulfill the dream of teaching poor people has to come after Eritrean and its

AEEC | February 2017 15

people liberated from the Ethiopian regime. Gradually, Beyene started to change and after a while his superior
approached him to figure out what was bothering him. Beyene tried to hide his feelings for short time.

As the discussion heated up he couldnt able to hide anything he was feeling about Eritrea. I am certainly aware that I
was well instructed and brought up to this Institute, said Brother Beyene. By the way, I am not comparing at all, but
prioritizing he repeated. Right now I dont feel good and fully satisfied on the account of the choice I had made.
A week before his departure to the front, he was making ready himself by being in close contact with his old friend
Abadi. Abadi used to play a basketball in Asmara with Beyene before he joined EPLF in 1976. Life is short so I have to
harry up and get it done, He said. The armed struggle was the only thing in his mind, and the last thing that remained
him was to say good bye to the Institute.

St. Joseph School in Keren

His superior tried to win Beyene back, but it was not easy to convince him. Beyene was so secure in his feelings and
managed to cross through the fire of contradictions to make better his position. It was last Sunday of June 1977, on
the eve before his departure to the front, while most of the monks were at recreation he approached his brothers to
say good-bye to all. The words below were last words of Beyene before he joined the liberation front:

No matter how hard it will be, no matter what the future will be, the liberation of the locals had taken precedence to all
my previous decisions. I deeply love my Institute, my students and my profession. My life might not be with the Institute.
For the time being my rosary would be changed into Klashinkof, but after the independence I will knock on the door of
my Institute by hanging my klashinkof at the gate of the monastery.

It never happened like that. Beyene didnt come back. He didnt join his beloved Institute. He remained on the
mountains of Sahel. He was dead in 1982, during Eritrean liberation struggle of the 6th offensive campaign.
Of course, I didnt actually accept the situation, but I expected it would be so, since the nature of the struggle was
losing ones life. I would have liked Brother Beyene wearing the black robe and the white robbat. I would have liked,
he entering his class and giving his lessons. I would have liked, he dribbling the ball and scoring many shots. I would
have liked many good things to happen unfortunately he paid the ultimate price.

After all, I realized the fact of the armed struggle. The fact of dying within the process of the struggle. I was not able
to stop trying so hard to accept the fact. I had a strong memory of the struggle, but my own weak sentiments and
feelings wouldnt help me, since my mind was not strong enough to handle it. I am sure most of his students would
feel the same way.

AEEC | February 2017 16

It was and still is comforting to have brilliant educators who care. The
professionalism, dedication and transcendence moments they showed day in and
day out, thank you just doesnt seem like nearly enough. Our mutual

heartfelt profound appreciation and deep gratitude for their positive

attitude that has had a terrific influence on those of us who are the
beneficiary of their relentless noble efforts.

AEEC | February 2017 17

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AEEC | February 2017 18

~
A
E
E Authors
M
~ YOSIEF WOLDEMARIAM
A meharigrw@yahoo.com earned his B.S. in
E Electrical Engineering from San Francisco State
E University. Currently he is project manager with
M Syska Hennessy Group, an engineering
~ consulting firm as project manager.
A TransAmerica.
E SENAIT AMANUEL samanuel464@gmail.com
E received her B.S. in Civil Engineering from Addis
M Ababa University & MS in Structural
~ Engineering from Cornell University. She is
A currently Project Engineer at Global Power
E Equipment Group.
E
M MEDHANIE TECLE medghet@yahoo.com
~ received his B.S. in Civil Engineering from Addis
A Ababa University & MS in Civil & Environmental
E Engineering from University of Nevada, Las
E Vegas. Currently he is
M Principal Engineer/Engineering Manager at
~ Cardno ATC
A
E FILIPOS ABRAHAM afiliposa@yahoo.com holds
E Masters Degree in Software Engineering from
M Wichita State University. Currently he is working
with Boeing Defense Space and Security as
~ designer and embedded real time software
A developer.
E
E ROBEL KAHSAY rykahsay@gmail.com earned
M
his PhD in Bioinformatics from University of
~ Delaware. Currently he is an Assistant Professor
A of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine School
E of Medicine & Health Sciences in George
E Washington University
M working with Western Digital.
~
A
E
E
M
AEEC | February 2017
Authors
SELAM MESGHINA selamvbwfg@yahoo.com
earned her B.S. in Chemistry and Biology from
Metropolitan State University of Denver &
Master of Physician Assistant from Eastern
Virginia Medical School. Currently she Master
of Physician Assistant/ Senior Associate at
FITSUM RUSSOM fitsumk@hotmail.com
earned his B.S. in Electrical Engineering from
University of California, San Diego. He is
currently Product Engineer/Project Manager
at Texas Instruments.
GHERMAY ARAYA KAHSAY
ghermay.araya@newlighttechnologies.com
earned his B.S. in Physical Geography and
Cartography from University of Maryland
College Park & Harvard Business School
Executive Education. Currently he is CEO of
New Light Technologies.
AMANUEL GEBREBRHAN
agebrebrhan@yahoo.com received his BS and
MS in Pharmaceutical and material Sciences in
Europe. Currently he is working with
Honeywell as a Sr. Scientist/Engineer in
Silicon Valley, California. He is also an inventor
of (4) granted U.S patents and (1) pending
patents in the field of Semiconductor and
Display.
ANDAI TESFAY wereba1991@yahoo.com
earned his B.S. in Electrical Engineering from
San Francisco State University. Currently he is
19
 References:

1. www.addthis.com/images/yourlo
go.png
2. http://www.educationworld.co
m/a_issues/starr/starr019
3. https://teach.com/what/teachers
-change-lives/
If you need an updated
information, discussions or
have an experience you would
like to share with your fellow
professionals feel free to
contact us.

4. https://libres.uncg.edu/ir/uncg/f You will find us on

/B_Hardin_Honoring_2007.pdf

www.linkedin.com/groups/Al
pha-Eritrean-Engineers-
Community

AEEC BE PART OF
IT
IT CONNECTS

IT INFORMS

IT SHARES EXPERIENCES

AEEC | February 2017 20