Ethiopian Scholars Called to Drive National Development Through Solution-Oriented Research

Addis Ababa, September 29, 2025 (FMC) — The Ministry of Education has called on Ethiopian scholars to play a more decisive role in advancing national development by focusing their research on practical, problem-solving approaches.

Speaking at the opening of the 22nd International Research Workshop at Hawassa University, held in collaboration with the Ethiopian Research Institute of Addis Ababa University, Education Minister Professor Berhanu Nega said that academia must remain at the forefront of sustaining Ethiopia’s transformation and addressing societal challenges in a sustainable manner.

He stressed that research forums should not be limited to triennial gatherings, arguing that such an interval fails to keep pace with global developments. Instead, he urged that workshops be held annually to ensure Ethiopia’s academic community remains relevant and contributes effectively to policy and development priorities.

Professor Berhanu further called on researchers to provide evidence-based policy inputs that strengthen nation-building and counter misinformation and divisive narratives circulating on social media.

Hawassa University Vice President Chirotaw Ayele noted that the research outcomes presented at this year’s workshop will provide valuable input for national policymaking and development strategies. He added that hosting the international gathering offers significant opportunities for both the university and the city of Hawassa.

Yohannes Adge, Director of the Ethiopian Research Institute at Addis Ababa University, highlighted the long history of the workshop, which has been held for more than six decades in different countries. In Ethiopia, he said, the triennial event has provided important resources for policymakers and practitioners, while also strengthening platforms for knowledge exchange, collaborative projects, and international academic partnerships.

The five-day workshop has drawn wide participation from Ethiopia and abroad, including Sidama Regional State Deputy Chief Administrator Beyene Berassa, the Mayor of Hawassa City, representatives of the German and French embassies, as well as scholars from universities and research institutions across different continents.