Arba Minch University (AMU), in collaboration with the African-European Youth Academy (AEYA), concluded a youth leadership and innovation training program on October 20, 2026, in Turmi Town, South Omo Zone, with a closing ceremony attended by university officials and zonal administrators. Click here to see more photos.
Held under the theme “Developing Youth Leadership in Sub-Saharan Africa,” the program equipped 26 young people from across Ethiopia with leadership, entrepreneurship, and community development skills, emphasizing active citizenship and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). All participants received certificates of participation.
Opening the ceremony, AMU President Dr. Eng. Abdella Kemal highlighted the University’s contributions to research, teaching, and community service. He noted that AMU’s research addresses societal challenges and that collaboration with development partners helps translate research findings into practical solutions, citing the youth training initiative as an example. He urged participants to apply their knowledge with commitment and strive for excellence at the international level, reaffirming the University’s commitment to national development.
In his remarks, Dr. Teklu Wegayehu, Vice President for Research and Cooperation, thanked the individuals and stakeholders who contributed to the program’s success. He emphasized that investing in young people means investing in the country’s future and encouraged participants to apply their newly acquired skills to national development and business creation.
Mr. Maekel Malko, Chief Administrator of South Omo Zone, described the zone as a “Small Ethiopia,” where diverse nations and nationalities live together. He expressed appreciation for AMU’s continued partnership and called for strengthened cooperation to advance development. He also noted that the participants had explored local community challenges, customs, and ways of life, developing and presenting innovative ideas to support community development.
Presenting the project report, Dr. Sintayehu Semu, the project coordinator and researcher, explained that the initiative was funded by the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation, with the involvement of French development experts. He said the academy is designed for implementation in 19 sub-Saharan African countries, including Ethiopia.
Dr. Abiot Tsegaye, Director of Entrepreneurship Development and Technology Incubation at AMU and a researcher, said the training would help participants become influential leaders at national and international levels.
Dr. Tamirat Yigezu, Deputy Head of the South Ethiopia Regional Education Bureau and a member of the competition’s judging panel, likewise underscored the program’s potential to contribute to the country’s future development.
Representing the participants, Mr. Woldemedhin Kachano, a member of the winning team, expressed his appreciation for the training, noting that it encouraged young people to think creatively and develop forward-looking ideas to help shape the country’s future.
The 120-hour training, delivered by six trainers, covered employment creation through indigenous knowledge, nutrition and indigenous food systems, rural development, language in indigenous conflict-resolution processes, leadership, and entrepreneurship. Participants conducted two days of field data collection in Dirashe District of Gamo Zone and Kangaten District of South Omo Zone, followed by three days of practical group assignments. Five teams presented their findings and proposed solutions before an independent panel of five judges. The top three teams received awards of €1,500, €1,000, and €500, respectively.
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