Asefa Tesema Seblewongal
CURRICULUM VITAE
ACADEMIC CAREER AND ACADEMIC QUALIFICATIONS
Lecturer
Mekelle University, Department of Music and Visual Arts
08/2011 - 05/2021
- Taught undergraduate courses in music theory, history, and ethno-musicology.
- Conducted research in ethno-musicology and presented findings at academic conferences.
- Advised undergraduate students on research projects and supervised their theses.
Clinical Nurse
Yekatit 12 Hospital, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
01/2006 - 01/2009
- Monitored and recorded patient conditions, assessed needs, administered medications, and implemented recovery strategies.
EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND
- Medico Bio Medical College - Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Medical: Clinical Nurse
09/2003 - 04/2005
- Addis Ababa University, Yared School of Music - Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Bachelor of Arts: Music
09/2007 - 08/2011
- Mekelle University- Mekelle, Ethiopia
- Master of Arts: Ethno-musicology
11/2015 - 03/2017
- Addis Ababa University
Master of Arts in Educational Leadership and Management
10/2021 - 08/2023
PRESENTATIONS AND WORKSHOPS
- Use of Music Therapy for Autistic Children
Presented at Addis Ababa University, Yared School of Music, 2019.
- Focused on the therapeutic benefits of music for autistic children, highlighting practical applications in educational settings.
- Music Education in Kyambogo University, Uganda
Presented in 2020.
- Examined the trajectories of music education in Ethiopia and the impact of general educational policies in shaping music education, emphasizing political influences and pedagogical practices.
- Capacity Building Seminar for Safeguarding Intangible Cultural Heritage
Participated in the intercontinental seminar in Hungary from June 3-10, 2019.
- Engaged with international experts on practices for safeguarding cultural heritage, focusing on community involvement.
TEACHING
- Dedicated to student engagement and comprehension, utilizing collaborative teaching methods in music theory, history, and ethno-musicology courses.
- Prepared students for performances and competitions, conducting music lessons for various skill levels.
RESEARCH INTERESTS
- Art and emotion- impact of Art on empathy and social cognition
- Music Therapy - in connection to Social Inclusion, Palliative Care, Neurorehabilitation, Mental disorders, Pain Management, cultural understanding and Healing rituals.
- Cultural studies in connection to social practices and cultural identity.
- Cultural specificity of emotional response to Art
- Art and Cultural Identity, Music and Social Change and Music and Migration
- Ethno-musicology and its applications in cultural understanding and preservation.
- Educational methodologies and policies in Art education
- Cultural Heritage Preservation preserving and promoting cultural heritage through Art, particularly within the context of Ethiopia and its diverse cultures.
- Community Engagement and Cultural Identity- interests in how music can strengthen cultural identity and community bonds.
DISSERTATION PROJECT
Research Overview
Title- The Sociopolitical Function of Ethiopian Art- Examining Activism, Resistance, and Social Change
This doctoral research project examines the sociopolitical dimensions of Ethiopian art, focusing on how artistic expressions serve as forms of activism, resistance, and social change during the recent political transition in Ethiopia. Through a detailed analysis of various art forms—including music, paintings, and poetries —this study aims to uncover the ways in which artists engage with sociopolitical issues on ethnic diversity, historical narratives, and the quest for social justice.
The research will examine the role of Ethiopian art as a catalyst for activism, resistance and social change during the transition form EPRDF regime to the current government. Through analysing the various forms of Arts and the sociopolitical messages conveyed. Furthermore, the study will delve into the role of art as a medium for voicing dissent and mobilizing community solidarity to foster social justice.
This research not only aims to contribute to the academic discourse surrounding Ethiopian art and politics but also seeks to support artists and communities in their efforts to harness the power of art as a tool for activism and empowerment. By bridging theory and practice, this project aspires to foster a deeper understanding of the role art plays in shaping sociopolitical realities within Ethiopia.
BIOGRAPHY
I was born in Gondar and raised in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. My higher education began with the pursuit of a clinical nurse degree at Medico Bio Medical College, which equipped me with foundational skills in healthcare. After completing my study, I began working at Yekatit 12 Hospital, where I gained valuable experience in patient care between 2006 and 2009.
However, my deep-seated passion for music led me to further my education in this field. I enrolled at Addis Ababa University, Yared School of Music, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Music. This experience deepened my understanding of musical theory and its practical aspect such as playing instruments. Building on this foundation, I obtained a Master's degree in Ethno-musicology from Mekelle University, allowing me to explore the intersection of music, culture, and identity. This academic journey continues to shape my research interests today, focusing on how Art reflects and influences societal values and personal identity within the Ethiopian context.