The consultative workshop was held at the Hilton Hotel in Ethiopia and marked the conclusion of the first phase of the U.S. Embassy’s $522,000 grant to EAS. The goal of this grant is to support universities in their transition to autonomous governance. A team of four experts, including local, U.S., and international specialists in higher education provided valuable insights and recommendations on the draft strategic plans and legislative policies of the nine leading universities. Their feedback was shared through group sessions and one-on-one consultations, offering comprehensive guidance for the future development of these institutions.
The workshop convened presidents and leaders from Ethiopia’s top public universities to refine their Strategic Plans and Senate Legislation in preparation for the transition to autonomous governance. This event marked a significant milestone in Ethiopia’s higher education reform, building upon the University Autonomy Proclamation No. 1294/2023. This proclamation aims to enhance institutional independence, financial flexibility, and academic excellence throughout the country’s universities.
In his welcoming address, Prof. Belay Kassa, President of the EAS, emphasized the importance of the workshop as a reflection of the collective commitment and shared vision for a higher education system that is transformative, relevant, inclusive, and responsive.
In his opening remarks, Ambassador Ervin Massinga of the U.S. Embassy in Addis Ababa acknowledged the significance of establishing a regulatory framework for university autonomy, but also pointed out that the real challenge lies in implementing these regulations effectively.
H.E. Mr. Kora Tushune, State Minister of the Ministry of Education (MoE), emphasized the significance of granting autonomy to higher education institutions. This autonomy is crucial for ensuring academic freedom and enabling universities to conduct high quality research and promote innovation in education effectively.
Solomon Abrha (PhD), the Chief Executive Officer for Governance and Infrastructure at the MoE, delivered a keynote speech outlining the government’s vision for expanding autonomy and ensuring strong regulatory frameworks to guide universities through the transition.
The workshop delved into detailed discussions on university governance and institutional leadership, featuring insights from both Ethiopian and international experts. A panel of experts, comprised of local, U.S., and international higher education specialists, offered comprehensive feedback on the Strategic Plans and Senate Legislation of each university.
During individual consultations, universities received personalized recommendations on governance reforms and policy alignment. A team from AAU shared valuable insights on best practices from their transition to autonomy governance, discussing successes, challenges, and lessons learned.
Throughout the workshop, universities such as Jimma, Haramaya, Bahir Dar, Gondar, Hawassa, Mekelle, Arba Minch, Adama Science and Technology, and Addis Ababa Science and Technology University had their strategic plans and senate legislation documents reviewed. These sessions facilitated critical review, peer learning, and policy refinement to ensure a seamless transition.
The workshop highlighted the strong partnership between the Ethiopian Academy of Sciences, the U.S. Embassy, and the Ministry of Education in their collective support for university autonomy.
In his closing remarks, Prof. Teketel Yohannes Executive Director of the EAS, praised the commitment of the universities and stakeholders, stating. He added the significant of the workshop step in empowering Ethiopian universities to manage their own affairs, drive research innovation, and enhance academic freedom. The success of this transition will redefine the future of higher education in Ethiopia.
The workshop concluded with a directive session led by MoE officials on setting national criteria and guidelines for university autonomy, ensuring a structured and sustainable transition across all institutions.
With Ethiopia’s public universities now equipped with refined policies and strategic roadmaps, the country moves closer to a more independent and globally competitive higher education system.