Arba Minch, Arba Minch University (AMU), Ethiopia - Arba Minch University-Inter-University Cooperation (AMU-IUC), recently hosted a series of impactful workshops, the Joint Steering Committee Meeting (JSCM) and an outreach field visit to Elgo catchment designed to boost research capabilities and foster international collaboration in September, 2025, in Main Campus; the intensive sessions, particularly focused on advanced team project proposal writing and the strategic integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) for cutting-edge research. Click here to see more photos.
The crucial workshops on VLIRUOS Team project proposal writing and "AI in Academia: Opportunity and Threat" were presented by Mr. Roeland Janssen, Flemish Project Manager of AMU-IUC, and Dr. Arnau Dillen, a TISP1 project leader, respectively. IUC and AMU PhD students showcased the transformative potential of AI from concept to application in team project writing.
Dr. Teklu Wegayehu, AMU-IUC Project Coordinator and Vice President for Research and Cooperation at AMU, underscored the paramount importance of effective communication in academic endeavors. "Effective writing is about sharing ideas, conveying messages, and inspiring action," he articulated, addressing the eager participants during the week's events. "In our diverse world, strong writing skills are essential, especially when it comes to working on team projects,” he said. “Clear and compelling communication can make all the difference," Dr. Teklu underlined, “the week's goal is to not only enhance individual writing prowess but also to elevate the collective strength of team-based research.”
According to Dr. Fassil Eshetu, AMU-IUC Project Manager, the focused training sessions were strategically designed to equip AMU staff with the necessary skills to successfully compete for highly demanded project proposals. The timely integration of AI for research was a particularly relevant component which prepares researchers for the evolving landscape of global scientific inquiry.
Apart from the training workshops, the other part of the team’s engagement focused on the steering committee meeting. The members briefed their consolidations regarding the AMU-IUC impactful collaboration so far.
Professor Roel Merckx, the Flemish Project Coordinator, reflected on the profound impact of the VLIRUOS module of cooperation, noting how it had "sown the seeds of sustainability." He emphasized its role in empowering indigenous communities by providing access to expertise and facilitating developmental avenues.
Mr. Roeland Janssen, beyond his role as a trainer, also addressed the upcoming conclusion of the current IUC program and reaffirmed a strong commitment to sustaining the valuable collaborations built over the years. "The trainings imparted to impact sustainable and equitable development will sustain skills and knowledge of staff on writing a good proposal and winning projects and getting promoters from the north," Mr. Janssen asserted, promising continued support for AMU's research aspirations.
Participants expressed immense satisfaction with the program's outcomes. Dr. Yoseph Arba Orke, a trainee from the Meteorology and Hydrology Faculty, enthusiastically shared his newfound knowledge. "I have got important inputs regarding how to write a team project, win project funding, get a promoter from the north, and connect AI in team project proposal writing," he remarked, underscoring the comprehensive nature of the learning experience.
Additionally, the participants took the opportunity to visit areas within the Elgo catchment and gain valuable information on RSP6 outreach activities in the Farmer Training Center. This intensive week of engagement signifies a major stride for AMU-IUC in fostering a culture of innovation, collaborative research, and sustainable development.
The steering committee also observed a minute of silence and planted coffee seedlings at the main campus to commemorate Dr. Simon Shibru, the former IUC project coordinator, honoring his enduring legacy symbolizing growth and lasting impact.
For more Information Follow us on:-
Website - https://www.amu.edu.et/
Telegram - https://t.me/arbaminch_university
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/ArbaMinchUniversityccd/
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOO_nclhMo8M3r74OyPBlVA
Public and International Relations Executive
