Mekdes Tekalign has a strong background in Gender Equity and Social Inclusion, with expertise in providing technical assistance for gender and inclusion in project implementation. She brings 19 years of professional experience working with both local and international NGOs, higher education institutions, and consulting firms. Mekdes has held several key roles, including Gender Specialist at Mennonite Economic Development Associates (MEDA), GESI Coordinator at Education Development Trust (EDT), Community Outreach Coordinator for the READ II program, Program Officer for the Africa Business Education Initiative for Youth at the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), and Consultant at Ethiopia Civil Service University. She holds a Master's in Educational Leadership from Addis Ababa University and is currently pursuing a Master's in Social Psychology at the same institution.

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