Administration structure of IOS
The Institute of Oromo Studies will have one director and assistant administrator with a financial system in place. The Institute will be accountable to the Vice President for Research and Partnerships of Jimma University. The staff from the various colleges and departments at Jimma University are the research staff of the Institute. However, in the areas of Oromo studies where there in acute shortage of researchers, the Institute works in collaboration with other universities in Oromia and can employ full-time researchers for the institute.
CORE OPERATIONAL UNITS
The Institute operates through three integrated units that collectively deliver its mandate. Each unit plays a strategic role in advancing the research, cultural preservation, and educational goals of IOS.
1. RESEARCH AND PUBLICATION UNIT
The Research and Publication unit serves as the intellectual engine of IOS, generating knowledge that informs academic discourse, policy, and development. Its mandate is to advance interdisciplinary research and produce high-quality scholarly outputs on Oromo knowledge
systems and practices.
The key functions of this unit include
Conducting research projects and thematic studies
Organize conferences, seminars, workshops, and academic events
Publish journals, books, proceedings, and policy briefs
Supporting collaborative and multidisciplinary research initiatives
2. MUSEUM AND GALLERY UNIT
The Museum and Gallery Unit functions as the cultural interface of IOS, connecting academic research with lived cultural experiences and public engagement. The mandate of this unit is to preserve, exhibit, and promote Oromo cultural heritage through curated collections and public engagement. The key functions of the unit include:
Collection and preservation of cultural artifacts
Organization of exhibitions and cultural displays
Documentation of traditions, rituals, and artistic expressions
Public education and cultural awareness initiatives
3. LIBRARY AND ARCHIVE UNIT
The Library and Archive unit serves as the knowledge repository of IOS, ensuring long-term preservation and accessibility of intellectual and cultural resources. Its mandate is to collect, preserve, and provide access to scholarly and historical resources related to Oromo studies. The key functions of the unit include
Development of physical and digital archives
Collection of books, journals, theses, and dissertations
Management of conference materials and research outputs
Providing access to data and resources for researchers and students