[Aduu meets British PM Gordon Brown]

The British government honored Aduu Joba, a graduate of Kingston University in London  recently for her efforts to teach Oromo children and youth in London how to read, write and speak Afan Oromo. 

 Aduu was named “a local heroine” in London and on the nation’s Volunteer Day was invited to No. 10 Downing Street to meet Prime Minister Gordon Brown. 

 She has lived in London since she was five and her parents emigrated to London from Ethiopia.  “I felt that the younger generations who were born and raised in London were failing to grasp the language,” she told Namo Dandi of the Afan Oromo service.  “My mission was to start a language class for them.”  The class began with instruction in the ABCs for beginners aged four to 14. The project was funded by Junction49.  “I also organized lots of other things for people to take part in, such as singing, art and craft activities, as well as games that are common to the Oromo culture,” said Aduu Joba. 

“The way they embraced learning about their culture captured my heart,” Aduu said.  “It really did inspire not only me but also all those involved to remember the importance of who we are and where come from and to make sure that the knowledge and understanding we have of our Oromo heritage is passed on to the next generation,” she added.