International Conference on “The Future for Creativity and Innovation in Higher Education in Ethiopia” Successfully Concluded
Dire Dawa University successfully hosted the International Conference on “The Future for Creativity and Innovation in Higher Education in Ethiopia” from November 4–5, 2025, at Dire Dawa East Star Hotel in a hybrid format.
The conference was organized under two EU-funded projects Ethiopia–Djibouti Female at Makerspace (EtD-FaM) and MaDE for University of Applied Sciences (UASs) both aimed at enhancing creativity, innovation, and applied learning in Ethiopian higher education.
The event brought together national and international partners from academia, industry, and government to discuss Ethiopia’s transformation toward a University of Applied Sciences (UAS) model.
Key highlights included:
.Opening remarks by Dr. Megersa, Academic Vice President of Dire Dawa University, reaffirming the university’s commitment to innovation and global collaboration.
.A presentation by Dr. Teshome Nekatibeb, President of Kotebe University of Education, on the national UAS transformation initiative.
.An official virtual opening by Dr. Eba Mijena, CEO for Academic Affairs at the Ministry of Education, emphasizing the importance of bridging theory and practice.
.A keynote address by Prof. Erwin from Bolzano University, Italy, on the role of Fab Labs in fostering creativity and practical skills.
.Project updates by Ms. Hana, coordinators of the EtD-FaM projects.
.An engaging panel discussion on “The Future of Learning: Evidence-Based Experiences” with experts from Ethiopia and Europe.
.Industry-focused sessions featuring partners from Thumbs Up Plc, Efuyegela Publishers, Guzo Technologies, ConTech Consultancy, and Tobiya Studio, emphasizing stronger university–industry collaboration.
The second day featured additional paper presentations, a motivational talk by Mrs. Hadiya, Co-founder of Enat Bank and leader of the Women Exporters Association, and a summary report by Bezawit Lema. The conference concluded with a certificate award ceremony and closing remarks by Dr. Ephrem Tekle, Vice President for Research, Community Engagement, and Technology Transfer at Kotebe University of Education.
The two-day conference highlighted the collective commitment of partners to drive creativity, innovation, and practical learning in Ethiopia’s higher education landscape.