About Bethlehem Youth Academy

1. Bethlehem Youth Academy (BYA) PLC Background and Historical Evolution

1.1. Foundation and Founding Shareholders

The strategic journey of Bethlehem Youth Academy (BYA) PLC is rooted in a clear vision and the collective commitment of seven dedicated individuals. Established in 2015 (2008 E.C.), the following founding shareholders laid the cornerstone for the academy’s growth and current success:

1. Ato Negash Balcha Sebitche
2. W/ro Fantu Wari
3. Ato Samson Darsema Abdecho
4. Ato Yohannes Assefa Molla
5. Ato Eyob Zeray Kahsay
6. Ato Yifruh Geremew/Giorgis
7. Ato Tagel Guday Diress

1.2. The Inception Phase (2015 – 2016)

Prior to the official commencement of academic operations, a rigorous two-month mobilization and preparation phase was conducted between July and August 2015. After securing full accreditation and licensing from the Addis Ababa Education Bureau, the academy officially opened its doors in September 2015.

The initial operational profile was characterized by:

• Facility & Faculty: Operations began in a rented compound (the former residence of Ato Negash Balcha) with a dedicated team of 23 teachers, administrative, and support staff.
• Students Enrollment: The academy launched with approximately 120 students, ranging from Pre-Primary to Grade 4.
• Social Responsibility Principle: Although the initial feasibility study suggested higher tuition rates to match the intended quality of service, the founding chairman, Ato Negash Balcha, championed a "Community-First" philosophy. Based on his long-standing relationship with the local community, he insisted on affordable rates—700.00 ETB for Pre-Primary and 1,000.00 ETB for Primary—to ensure quality education remained accessible.

1.3. A Decade of Strategic Growth (2015 – 2026)

Over the past 11 years, by adhering to its core principles of academic excellence and integrity, Bethlehem Youth Academy has undergone a remarkable transformation:

• Branch Expansion: From a single rented compound, the academy has expanded into four (4) distinct branches currently providing active educational services.
• Enrollment Growth: Student enrollment has surged from the initial 120 to over 1,300 students today (an increase of over 1,000%).
• Human Capital: The workforce has grown significantly from under 20 employees to a professional staff of over 145.
• Financial Positioning: In alignment with market dynamics and the enhanced quality of services, the average monthly tuition has evolved to approximately 5,000.00 ETB, reflecting the institution's increased value proposition.