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The Ambukuna SDA School stands as a testament to God’s faithfulness and the transformative power of Christian education. Established in 2022, this school is a resurrection of the original Ambukuna SDA School, which was closed nearly 50 years ago during the communist regime of Colonel Mengistu Hailemariam. The reopening of the school after 47 years is nothing short of a miracle, a fulfillment of God’s promise to restore what was lost. Today, the school serves as a cornerstone of spiritual and academic growth in the Ambukuna community, nurturing young minds for both earthly service and eternal life.
The original Ambukuna SDA School, which offered education from kindergarten to grade five, was closed in 1975. It was a place where children not only learned academic subjects but also received foundational Christian education. Among its students was Daniel Shamebo Sabore, now the President of the Everlasting Gospel Projects (EGP). In the first grade, under the guidance of his brilliant Bible teacher, Mr. Abebe Lamore, young Daniel learned about the heroes of faith—from Abel to the apostles—and the gospel message took root in his heart. This early exposure to God’s Word shaped his lifelong commitment to ministry and education. As Ellen White writes in Education, “The work of education and the work of redemption are one” (p. 30). The original Ambukuna SDA School embodied this truth, combining academic excellence with spiritual formation.
However, the school was forced to close during the political upheaval of the 1970s, leaving a void in the community. For nearly five decades, the children of Ambukuna grew up without access to Christian education. Yet, the seeds of faith planted in the hearts of students like Daniel Shamebo Sabore bore fruit over time. Inspired by his early education at Ambukuna SDA School, Daniel dedicated his life to ministry and founded the EGP, an organization committed to holistic mission work, including the revival of Christian education.
In 2021, the dream of restoring Ambukuna SDA School became a reality. The new school was established on the very grounds where the original school once stood, symbolizing God’s faithfulness and the community’s resilience. The reopening of the school after 47 years is a powerful reminder of Isaiah 61:4: “They will rebuild the ancient ruins and restore the places long devastated; they will renew the ruined cities that have been devastated for generations.”
The new Ambukuna SDA School began with a clear mission: to provide Christ-centered education that nurtures the mind, body, and spirit. By 2025, the school had grown significantly, accommodating 234 students across various grades:
This growth is a testament to the community’s trust in the school’s mission and the EGP’s unwavering support.
In July 2024, during a historic evangelistic campaign led by Daniel Shamebo Sabore, the Ambukuna SDA School became a focal point of spiritual revival. Thousands of people from over 13 SDA churches and surrounding villages gathered at Ambukuna SDA Church to hear the gospel. The campaign not only strengthened the faith of existing members but also led many new souls to accept Jesus Christ as their Savior. The school played a central role in this transformation, as parents recognized the value of an education grounded in faith.
During the campaign, Daniel Shamebo Sabore shared his personal testimony, reflecting on how his early education at Ambukuna SDA School shaped his life and ministry. He emphasized the importance of Christian education, quoting Proverbs 22:6: “Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old, he will not depart from it.” His presentations during the evangelistic campaign and the school graduation ceremony inspired parents, teachers, and students alike, reminding them that education is not merely for earthly success but for eternal significance.
The Ambukuna SDA School’s curriculum integrates Bible lessons with academic subjects, ensuring that students grow not only in knowledge but also in wisdom and godliness. Ellen White reminds us, “The true object of education is to restore the image of God in the soul” (Education, p. 15). This holistic approach has made the school a beacon of hope in the community.
The EGP’s support for the school extends beyond academics. Through the construction of two classrooms, the EGP has ensured that the school is partially equipped to fulfill its mission. The graduation ceremony held during the campaign was a celebration of this mission, as students received certificates and were encouraged to be “the light of the world” (Matthew 5:14). During the ceremony, Daniel Sabore, drawing from EGP funds, awarded three months of school fees to the top three students as well as the three lowest-performing students. This unique approach was designed to encourage both high achievers and those who struggled academically, reminding them that temporary failure does not define their future potential.
This act of generosity and encouragement was inspired by the stories of many great individuals who faced failure but went on to achieve remarkable success. For example:
One of the most inspiring examples is Ellen G. White, a co-founder of the Seventh-day Adventist Church and one of the most influential Christian authors in history. Ellen White’s formal education was cut short at the age of nine when a tragic accident left her severely injured. A stone thrown by a classmate struck her in the face, causing significant trauma and ending her ability to attend school. Despite this setback, Ellen White did not let her lack of formal education define her future. Instead, she was educated by Christ Himself through visions, dreams, and divine revelations.
Ellen White went on to write over 100,000 pages of material, including more than 40 books, countless articles, and periodicals. Her writings, such as Steps to Christ, The Great Controversy, and Education, have transformed millions of lives and continue to guide the Seventh-day Adventist Church. She became the most translated American woman author in history, with her works available in over 160 languages. Her visions and prophecies not only shaped the Adventist movement but also provided timeless insights into health, education, family life, and spirituality.
Ellen White’s life is a powerful reminder that God can use anyone, regardless of their educational background or past failures, to accomplish His divine purposes. Her story resonates deeply with the mission of Ambukuna SDA School, which seeks to nurture students who may face challenges but are destined for greatness in God’s plan.
As Ambukuna SDA School moves forward, it remains committed to its founding principles. The school’s impact is evident in the lives of its students and alumni, including Daniel Shamebo Sabore, whose early education there laid the foundation for his ministry. The EGP’s ongoing support ensures that future generations will also benefit from a Christ-centered education. As the psalmist declares, “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me to lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside the still waters. He restores my soul” (Psalm 23:1-3). Ambukuna SDA School is a place where souls are restored, and lives are transformed for God’s glory.
The resurrection of Ambukuna SDA School after 47 years is a powerful testimony to God’s faithfulness. It serves as a reminder that God can bring life to what was once lost and use it for His glory. The school stands as a beacon of hope, preparing a generation to be great citizens of this world and faithful disciples for God’s kingdom.
Despite the school’s remarkable progress, it faces significant challenges due to limited resources. The Everlasting Gospel Project, Inc. (EGP) generously funded the construction of initial classrooms made of wood and mud. However, the school still lacks:
Government supervisors have mandated that the school improve its infrastructure by constructing a high-standard, permanent building using concrete and metal, with proper utilities and sufficient room for staff and students. These improvements are critical to meeting government educational standards and ensuring the continued operation of the school.
The Ambukuna SDA School is a living testimony of God’s faithfulness, but its journey is far from complete. With the support of the global Adventist community and well-wishers, the school can overcome its current challenges and continue to be a beacon of hope and light. As Ellen White writes, “The education of the children and youth is the most important work of the present day” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 6, p. 199). Let us join hands to ensure that Ambukuna SDA School fulfills its mission of preparing children for this world and the world to come.
Together, we can help build a brighter future for the children of Ambukuna and beyond.
Founded in 1999, The Everlasting Gospel Projects (EGP) is a faith-based initiative committed to sharing the Three Angels’ Messages in regions with limited gospel access. By building bridges of hope, we spread the good news of salvation.