The Center for Evidence-Synthesis Support and Development in Africa (CESDA) and Jimma University (JU) officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on August 27, 2026, at the Central Hotel in Jimma, marking a significant step toward strengthening collaborative research, evidence synthesis, and the use of research in policy and decision-making.
The partnership aims to ensure that research findings—both from existing studies and future initiatives, are effectively communicated to communities, policymakers, and other key stakeholders, helping to address pressing societal and national challenges. Priority sectors include health, agriculture, education, and technology.
Speaking at the ceremony, Professor Zewdie Birhanu, a researcher and JBI Coordinator at Jimma University’s Institute of Health, emphasized the importance of translating research into meaningful action. He noted that beyond its teaching mission, Jimma University has a vital role as a research institution, and this partnership offers an encouraging opportunity to expand its research capacity and enhance its contribution to national development.
CESDA’s General Manger, Mr. Sabit Ababor highlighted the importance of coordination between the two institutions, stressing that research must go beyond publication and actively inform policy implementation and community-level solutions. He reaffirmed CESDA’s commitment to working closely with Jimma University on knowledge generation, evidence translation, and capacity strengthening.
University leaders Dr. Habtewold Deti and Dr. Frew Amsale, speaking on behalf of JU’s leadership, reiterated the university’s dedication to the partnership’s success and to fulfilling the strategic objectives outlined in the MoU.
Both institutions underscored that the success of the agreement depends on moving from signing to action, translating strategic goals into concrete initiatives and measurable outcomes. The collaboration is expected to create new opportunities for knowledge exchange, evidence-to-policy engagement, and sustainable development in Ethiopia, across Africa, and beyond.
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