Jimma University conducted its 9th Annual Research Conference under the Theme:” Biotechnological Researches and Innovations for National Development: Prospects and Challenges” from April 26-27, 2018 at Jimma University College of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine Hall. A welcoming address was made by Dr. Tsige Ketema, Vice President for Research and Community Services. In her speech, Dr Tsige stated that JU is committed to contributing its share to the national development through creating such platforms wherein research findings are shared and collaborative efforts are sealed. This year too, she said, the conference picked timely issue mainly due emphasis given to the importance biotechnology which is thought to aid the achievement of national development agenda.
Following the welcoming address, an opening remark was delivered by Jimma University President, Professor Fikre Lemessa. In the opening remark, he emphasized on JU’s role in producing high quality research outcomes in order to address the national policy priorities of the country, resolve the problems of local community and enlarge its contribution as one of the leading higher education institutions in the nation. He also mentioned that the theme of this year’s conference reflects the growing need in efficiency and productivity in various sectors using the cutting-edge technologies to undertake research in agriculture, health, natural sciences and engineering. Biotechnology uses advanced technologies and has a very promising potential in extending research impacts and innovation.
During the conference, over ninety research papers were presented including plenary papers. All paper presenters were awarded certificates and eight faculty members were awarded special certificates for their best oral presentation in the parallel session.
The conference participants, in their thorough discussion, agreed to put hands together to ensure dissemination of technology from universities to community and to strengthen collaborative relationship between the industry and higher education. As part of this endeavor a collaborative agreement was signed between Jimma University and Ethiopian Institute of Agriculture Research (EIAR) to work on the areas of capacity building and research.
Finally, after the wrap up discussion involving all participants, Professor Taye Tolemariam, Academic Vice President at Jimma University, made a closing remark, and the 9th Annual research Conference was officially closed.
