Traditional/Indigenous Education of Ethiopia

Ethiopia, including African countries, has rich cultural heritages, where traditional/indigenous education (IE) is among them. This chapter examines the different indigenous knowledge systems (IKS) of Ethiopia that are connected with the traditional education system. Curriculum, structure (stages of learning), teaching and learning methodologies, assessment, and so on are the main focus of the analysis. Personal reflection* of the authror on the traditional church education is also part of the discussion. Furthermore, it examines the impact of modernization on the traditional/indigenous education. It is argued that although Ethiopia has rich IKS and its safeguarding and promotion are specified in the Ethiopian Constitution, the emphasis given in the education (curriculum, research) is questionable. The formal traditional education has faced serious challenges, such as low participation of students, lack of an adequate policy, and support. Hence, to overcome the problems, suggestions are made.