The AMU-IUC project held Joint Steering Committee Meeting (JSCM) from September 15-21, 2024. The participants visited outreach activities on research sites at Gersee Oro, Gezza Forest, Shelle Mella, and Lake Chamo. Click here to see more photos.
Dr. Fassil Eshetu, the AMU-IUC project Manager, explained that the JSCM serves as a formal platform for key stakeholders, including project leaders, coordinators, institutional representatives, and partners from both AMU and the Flemish side. The committee, which holds the mandate to make strategic decisions, evaluated the progress of PhD students, reviewed detailed reports from each sub-project, and assessed financial and budgetary usage. Dr. Fassil noted the enthusiasm among committee members regarding the significant contributions PhD students are making to their fields.
Behailu Merdekios/ Assoc. Prof/, Vice President for Research and Collaboration at Arba Minch University/AMU/, noted that both discussions and field visits during the week-long meeting demonstrated significant progress, particularly in the outreach initiatives of Phase II. Committee members acknowledged and appreciated the project’s advancements which not only strengthen institutional and staff capacities but also benefit the broader community through ICT projects and science-based solutions, he said. Highlighting key initiatives, the biological check dam for gully stabilization and forest restoration efforts at Chamo Wetland, which aim to enhance biodiversity, provide local farmers with access to improved agricultural practices such as apple demonstration and nursery site at ‘Oro’ Kebelle, and crop varieties helped to build strong trust with project partners fostering collaboration and ensuring sustained success, he underlined. AMU remains committed to community-focused solutions that align with its mission of promoting development through science and innovation, he confirmed.
Professor Roel Merckx, the Flemish coordinator of the AMU-IUC project, emphasized the importance of outreach as the project moves into its second phase. He highlighted the need to translate research into practical applications for local farmers, particularly through demonstration sites in remote areas like ‘Oro Kebelle’. “Our investments at Gerse Oro Primary School which integrate agriculture, animal science, land restoration, and ICT infrastructure will serve as a hub for practical demonstrations and educational sessions for the local community and students,” he noted. These initiatives will showcase how we are transforming lives and highlight the contributions of the IUC and Arba Minch University to community development," Professor Merckx remarked.
Professor Roeland Janssen, the Flemish project manager on his part, emphasized the importance of firsthand observation in evaluating the project's progress. He praised the effectiveness of outreach programs and conservation efforts at the sites like ‘Oro’ and the lake protection areas, particularly the leadership roles PhD students have assumed in these initiatives. Professor Janssen also stressed the need for stronger partnerships with local governments and funders to tackle ongoing challenges, urging improved communication to ensure that scientific findings remain accessible and relevant to the communities involved.
The committee recognized the positive impact of outreach activities which have effectively engaged local communities and disseminated valuable knowledge. In overall, the meeting participants reflected optimism about the project’s trajectory reaffirming their commitment to collaboration and calling for expanded outreach efforts across all sub-projects to maximize community impact.
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