Arba Minch University (AMU) hosted the 12th International Symposium on Science for Sustainable Development at its main campus from April 17–18, 2026. The two-day event brought together researchers from universities across Ethiopia and abroad, along with participants from national institutes, representing diverse fields including agricultural sciences, health sciences, and natural and computational sciences. A total of 28 research papers were presented and discussed, while presenters and sponsors received certificates of recognition. The symposium was organized by AMU, co-hosted by the Commercial Bank of Ethiopia (CBE), and sponsored by the Ministry of Health of Ethiopia and the Ethiopian Conformity Assessment Enterprise (ECAE). Click here to see more photos.
Dr. Ing. Bogale G/Mariam, Academic Affairs Vice President at AMU and delegate of the University President, noted that the world is facing complex challenges to global stability, from climate change and food insecurity to emerging health crises that demand solutions which are not only innovative but also sustainable. He emphasized that research serves as a key driver of transformation, describing it not merely as an academic exercise but as a practical necessity for the survival and prosperity of society.
Dr. Tesfaye Habtemariam, Research Affairs Director at AMU and delegate of the Vice President for Research and Cooperation, highlighted that the 12th International Symposium centers on key thematic areas of health, agriculture, and natural sciences, emphasizing their critical role as foundational pillars for sustainable development in Ethiopia and beyond. He noted that the symposium brings together a diverse group of researchers and professionals to exchange knowledge, share research findings, and engage in discussions aimed at addressing pressing societal challenges. He further underscored the university’s commitment to fostering a research environment where knowledge is not only generated but also shared and translated into practical solutions.
Dr. Yemane Teklai, the first keynote speaker of the symposium, underscored that sustainable development is a comprehensive approach to growth that meets present economic and social needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own, balancing ecological integrity, social equity, and economic prosperity. He noted that this agenda is guided by the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals and emphasized that scientific research, particularly in the health sciences, plays a crucial role in advancing sustainable development by generating evidence-based and actionable solutions to global and national challenges. He further highlighted that interdisciplinary, inter-sectorial, and multi-sectorial collaboration, along with evidence-based policymaking, global partnerships, open science, and data sharing, are key principles underpinning effective scientific research.
Dr. Abebe Menkir, Principal Scientist and the second keynote speaker, shared his research experience on maize in Nigeria, emphasizing that contemporary agricultural development prioritizes sustainability, productivity, and resilience to climate change. He highlighted key approaches such as conservation agriculture, integrated pest management, and precision farming, noting that these methods enhance soil health, conserve water, improve food security, and reduce environmental impact. He further stressed that meaningful progress in agricultural development requires strong collaboration, underscoring the importance of sustained partnerships in advancing the sector.
Demonstrating its strong commitment to collaborative engagement, AMU signed two Memoranda of Understandings (MoUs) with the Commercial Bank of Ethiopia (CBE) and the South Ethiopia Region Industrial Parks Development Corporation during the occasion. Participants also visited AMU research products, including enset-based products and organic fertilizers. The symposium was attended by invited guests, presenters from various universities and institutes, as well as AMU staff from the College of Agricultural Sciences, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, and the College of Natural and Computational Sciences. The program was anchored by Dr. Tesfaye Habtemariam, Research Affairs Director at AMU.
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