Arba Minch University (AMU) recently conducted a specialized training program aimed at enhancing the advisory and coaching skills of its academic staff from November 11-12, 2024. Click here to see more photos
This training is part of the Ethiopian SuperStars project, running from September 2023 to August 2026. The initiative involves seven Ethiopian universities—Addis Ababa, Ambo, Arba Minch, Bahir Dar, Hawassa, Jimma, and Mekelle University—and is coordinated by Jimma University and Ghent University, with financial support from VLIR-UOS.
In his opening remarks, Dr. Alemayehu Chufamo, AMU’s Vice President for Academic Affairs, emphasized the critical role of doctoral education in Ethiopia. With only about 1% of students enrolled in PhD programs, he stressed the need for a robust PhD framework and high-quality supervision to produce outstanding graduates. Dr. Alemayehu noted that the training would play a crucial role in addressing supervisory gaps and establishing a consistent standard among academic staff, thereby supporting PhD students' success.
Dr. Teklu Wegayehu, Director of Postgraduate Studies at AMU, shared that the university currently hosts 330 PhD students, with 40 graduates to date. He highlighted the challenges many PhD candidates face in completing their studies on time and underscored the importance of improving supervisory practices to address these issues. Dr. Teklu emphasized that the current training program is the first round, with two additional rounds planned to further enhance supervisory skills and align staff with current procedures. The goal of these initiatives is to boost the efficiency and quality of PhD supervision and education at AMU, ultimately fostering academic excellence.
Dr. Melisew Dejene, a trainer from Hawassa University, explained that this training is part of a national initiative involving seven universities and aims to train 210 PhD supervisors. "The training equips supervisors with the skills needed to take on a scientific leadership role and address challenges faced by PhD students," he said. The program aims to strengthen Ethiopia’s doctoral education system and improve supervisors' problem-solving abilities to help students complete their research efficiently.
Among the trainees, Prof. Yisehak Kechero commented, "The knowledge gained from this training is invaluable in addressing the challenges our PhD students face. By updating our supervisory techniques, we can offer more effective guidance and ensure students complete their research with greater efficiency."
Dr. Dereje Tsegaye added, "This training is essential for staying updated on the latest best practices in PhD supervision. It enhances our ability to guide students effectively, improving mentorship and research outcomes."
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