Asnakech Berhan

A trailblazing Ethiopian educator who founded schools for girls and promoted literacy among women in a male-dominated society.

Rise from Obscurity

Asnakech Berhan (1905–1985) was born in Addis Ababa to a family of modest means. Despite her father’s objections, she secretly learned to read and write by observing her brother’s lessons. Her determination led her to become one of Ethiopia’s first female teachers, defying cultural norms that relegated women to domestic roles.

Establishing the First Girls’ School

In 1934, Berhan founded the Asnakech Berhan Girls’ School, Ethiopia’s first institution dedicated to educating girls in urban and rural areas. The school emphasized practical skills like healthcare and agriculture alongside academics, empowering young women to contribute to their communities. By 1950, the school had expanded to 12 branches nationwide.

Political and Social Advocacy

Berhan’s influence extended beyond education. She co-authored Ethiopia’s first gender equality law in 1960, which granted women the right to vote and own property. Her weekly radio broadcasts, “Voice of Ethiopian Women”, reached millions, challenging stereotypes and advocating for women’s political participation.

Legacy and Recognition

Today, the Asnakech Berhan Foundation continues her work, training teachers and funding scholarships. In 2018, the United Nations honored her as a “unsung hero of women’s rights”. Her efforts directly influenced the 1975 UN Decade for Women conference, which prioritized education in African development strategies.