Arba Minch University (AMU) is poised to enter into the realms of global ties with US universities in the mutual areas of academic research, exchange program, English curriculum development and training, library digitalization etc. with US Ambassador to Ethiopia, Patricia M Haslach paying courtesy visit to the university on September 22, 2014.
Reiterating US stand, Envoy said, ‘‘US educational institutions have developed stronger ties with Ethiopian universities like Axum, Gonder and Haramaya; today we are here to strengthen collaboration with AMU in diverse academic areas thus vitalizing your various departments.’’
Envoy was interacting with top AMU officials in a program organized at Video-Conferencing Hall, Main Campus on September 22, 2014; she was accompanied by her Public Affairs Officer, Mr David Kennedy.
Academic Affairs Vice President, and President’s Delegate Dr Agena Anjulo, received the dignitary and conducted the program by allowing selected individuals to ask questions.
Mr David Kennedy, said, ‘‘Working with Ethiopian universities is our top priority; we would strengthen new departments in Ethiopia. We would also support the idea of scholar exchange, collaboration in projects & research and curriculum development in English. We would continue to work with regional institutions.’’
Fulbright Program for higher studies, the strategic areas like Information Communication Technology (ICT), library information management and digitalization of resources are our priority, he stressed.
It’s learnt that creating opportunities for research and development of long-term agro-based program, establishing partnership for specific summer program and aid to female students are their prime agenda.
Replying to Vice President for Administration & Development, Dr Yechale Kebede’s queries on establishing laboratory and providing technical equipments, Envoy, said, their budget being limited, they can only provide training in capacity building, inputs in strengthening library. And further it’s for US universities to look into providing technical equipments to the needy.’’
Mr David allying the fear, further adds, ‘‘We would look into the areas like agriculture, solar energy, library science and even providing tech equipments. We have various projects that can benefit AMU in strengthening human capacity.’’
AMU President’s advisor, Mr Abiot Tsegaye sought support for community radio, manpower to optimize water-related issues, capacity building in administration and vehicles for commutation.
Dr Agena, stated AMU would approach the Embassy with concrete proposal on Library Science, lab equipment and their intervention in community radio to boost AMU’s endeavor.
On plea to get quality senior teachers, the Envoy, clarified, that AMU can be linked to US universities which are looking for partners, would rightly assist in enhancing research endeavor.
The Envoy was also beseeched to find ways to support ICT areas i.e. policy, technical and project management, collaboration in Geology, Meteorology and Hydrology and adult education. She revealed that US Embassy has a program supporting women studying 1st Year, she said, embassy supports such bodies helping female thus arresting further drop-out.
Academic Program Evaluation and Implementation (APEI) Director, Dr Nigussie, urged the Ambassador to collaborate with AMU in the areas of e-learning and video-conferencing thus building its capacity.
Dr Agena expressing gratitude on behalf of entire university to the visiting dignitary assured to identify areas which need intervention and then to approach Embassy with appropriate proposal at the right time. All AMU top officials attended the program.
By Philips Joseph