Ethiopia, Norway sign over 35Mln. Birr Grant Agreement

Addis Ababa, July 23(ENA)-- A 35.09 million Birr grant agreement providing for a financial support to the Debub and Mekele Universities was signed here on Wednesday between the governments of Ethiopia and Norway.

The agreement was meant to increase research capacities and qualifications as well as support training and teaching at both institutes, Charge d' Affair of the Norwegian Embassy in Addis Ababa, Dr. Inge Herman Rydland, said at the signing of the agreement.

"The need for economic growth is indisputable and the challenge of providing sufficient and qualified people to nurture growth in a new state structure is inevitable," he said.

State Minister of Finance and Economic Development, Dr Mulu Ketsela said on the occasion that the grant would have great impact on eradicating poverty and improve the capacity of students at the two universities.

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