Bethel Mekane Yesus School
Bethel Mekane Yesus School
The story of Bethel Mekane Yesus School began with a vision to transform lives through education, healthcare and the Gospel. Its roots can be traced to the missionary work of Dr. Thomas Lambie, who came to western Ethiopia during the Spanish influenza epidemic of 1918.
It was first known as the Annie Campbell George Memorial Girls' School, named in memory of the wife of a major benefactor who supported the establishment of the mission hospital. It later became widely known as the American Mission Girls' School, a name used by the surrounding community and in educational records.
As Ethiopian leadership increasingly assumed responsibility, the school was renamed Yehiwot Birhan, meaning "Light of Life." The name was later changed to Bethel Mekane Yesus School, reflecting the school's Christian foundation and its relationship with the Bethel Synods and the Ethiopian Evangelical Church Mekane Yesus.
Our Names Through the YearsDr. Thomas Lambie, an American physician and Presbyterian missionary, came to western Ethiopia during the Spanish influenza epidemic of 1918. After providing medical care in Sayo, present-day Dembi Dollo, he and his colleagues were invited to remain — and their work gradually expanded beyond healthcare to include Christian ministry and education.
The missionaries quickly recognized that educating girls was essential to building strong families, churches and communities. This conviction led to one of the earliest Christian schools dedicated to the education of girls in Ethiopia.
Continue the Story
With support from Ethiopian leaders and the missionary community, a boarding school began operating in Addis Ababa in 1924. Through the Italian occupation and beyond, the school persevered — moving to its present location and growing into a full educational institution serving students from kindergarten through Grade 12.
In 2024, Bethel Mekane Yesus School marked a century since its founding — celebrating with alumnae, church leaders, teachers and students who carry forward the same mission that began in 1918.
Full History & VideoToday, Bethel Mekane Yesus School continues to serve girls from kindergarten through Grade 12 — recognized by the Addis Ababa Education Bureau and following the curriculum established by the Ministry of Education.
Photos via the AYBS Alumni Association · View gallery
Alumnae, volunteers, supporters and families — find your place in the BMYS community beyond the classroom.
Reconnect with classmates and the AYBS Alumni Association at aybsalumni.com.
Share your time and talents with students, staff and school programs.
Learn about need-based support and alumni-funded scholarship programs.
Join the Bethel Mekane Yesus School Official Telegram Channel for news and updates.
"The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom."Proverbs 1:7 — The foundation of BMYS