Innovation Summit: Pitches, Insights, and Awards

In an event organized by the Project entitled “Establishing Innovation Incubation Center in Jimma University,” groundbreaking pitches, poster presentations, and heartwarming success story-telling sessions were conducted on January 23, 2024.

In his opening speech, Dr. Jemal Abafita, President of Jimma University, extended a warm welcome to participants and innovators. He emphasized Jimma University’s commitment to becoming an autonomous institution through international collaborations and continuously supporting such centers for research and innovation commercialization. He expressed gratitude to the Project and the RISA FUND for their crucial role in establishing the innovation incubation center. JU Innovation Incubation Center has been a source of inspiration and guidance since its establishment, supporting our students’ talents and creating an atmosphere that encourages innovation and the development of creative ideas. He stated that the students/innovators showcasing their innovations could inspire us all, and today’s event is proof of the incredible outcomes of the center.
Pitching: Our innovators took the stage with passion and creativity, presenting their incubation program progress. The energy was palpable as each pitch showcased the incredible potential for the innovation incubation journey. During Poster Presentations in the incubation center showcase room, our innovators showcased the diversity of thought and creativity.
Awards Ceremony: Congratulations to all the winners who demonstrated outstanding achievements in their incubation program. The team in the incubate program received a total of 300,000 ETB in awards, recognizing their exceptional contributions to the innovation incubation journey.
In the success story-telling sessions, biomedical Engineer Habetamu Abafoggie, an entrepreneur and the CEO of Simbona Africa Healthcare Company, shared their journeys, challenges, and motivated everyone to pursue their dreams. It was a powerful reminder that innovation is not just about ideas but also about resilience and determination. Eng. Efrem Wakijira, the Scientific Director of Jimma Institute of Technology, concluded the event with his closing remarks.
The Innovation Summit provided a unique platform for networking and collaboration. Connect with like-minded individuals, potential collaborators, and mentors.
A heartfelt thank you to all the participants, RISA, UKAID, speakers, and incubates who contributed to the success of the Innovation Summit.

Let’s continue to celebrate and cultivate the spirit of innovation, says the project leads Adane Tadesse and Dessalew Yohannes.
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