Applied Entrepreneurship Education Programme (AEEP) trainees have done commendable task by developing market-driven prototypes. We also appreciate Zonal Administration for assisting us in this regard. And the challenges being faced in its first phase would be looked into, said Institute of technology’s Scientific Director, Dr Negash Wagesho, while speaking in intermediate conference held at Lecture Theatre, Main Campus from 15 to 16 Oct, 2014. 

The conference kicked off with Neu-Ulm University of Applied Sciences project coordinator, Phillip Travers, giving the project introduction and its current status. He informed about all the prototypes i.e. Computer Numerical Control (CNC), Solar-Ice Cream, Photographic, Hair Saloon, Mobile-Lamp Charging machines and Mobile Theatre.

He spoke on next phase, its education approach, involvement of micro-finance, in-depth education based on practical experience, goals, project structure, overview; procedure & results of the pilot run, business model spectrum and its implementation results, bottlenecks anylysis and forward looking.

Some of the students involved in the project shared their ecouraging experiences and exude confidence to be future entrepreneurs. Instructor Engidaw Abel spoke on models and their specifics. AMU project coordinator Nathnael Chuta made technicality of CNC machine simple.

All the prototypes developed are in line with government policy emphasizing university-industry linkage, that aims to create entrepreneurial culture in the nation. We might have encounter hurdles, but our resolve is paramount, Dr Negash said.

Delegate of Gamo Gofa Zone administrator, Mr Betta, assured to facilitate all required support from the concerned departments and appreciate the initiative taken by the project. Later in the evening all the participants paid a visit to the area to witness business models doing brisk business.

By Corporate Communication Directorate (Philips Joseph)