International conference on “Transforming Post Conflict Ethiopia: Innovative Ideas for Sustainable Peace and Development” Successfully completed.

Jimma University hosted a two-day conference on “Transforming Post Conflict Ethiopia: Innovative Ideas for Sustainable Peace and Development” from June 8-9, 2023.

The conference brought together researchers, academicians and notable figures such as Obbo Lencho leta and Hon. Dr. Derartu Tullu.

The conference, which began with the blessing of Aba Gedas, aimed to create a platform that brings together scholars, key stakeholders and the community to exchange views and chart pathways to sustainable peace and development in the landscape of post-conflict Ethiopia and thereby contribute to the upcoming national dialogue.

Attendees came from various disciplines and institutions, making the conference a diverse and meaningful platform for discussions on important issues related to the country’s future.

The conference featured keynote speeches, panel discussions, and paper presentations. A musical show was also part of the conference. The keynote speeches were delivered by Prof. Ann Fitzgerald, Obbo Lencho leta, Prof. Kindeya Gebrehiwot and Dr. Erssido Lendebo.

Speakers presented their research papers on various topics related to the conference theme. The presentations covered a wide range of issues, including National Dialogue, sustainable and inclusive Peace Building, Multiculturalism, the roles of institutions such as media and parliament towards inclusive national dialogue and peace building.

Discussions were held on the papers presented whereby participants raised critical questions and made deliberations on national and local peace building endeavors.

A Panel discussion of university presidents was also held on “The Role of Higher Education Institutions in scientific Evidence Generation for Sustainable Peace and Development in Ethiopia”.

In the panel, university presidents in panelist roles highlighted how universities should play crucial roles in the process of peace building and national dialogue.

They are expected to provide scientific evidence through research that help support peace building efforts in the nation and address challenges and opportunities of building sustainable peace in the country.

Overall, the conference provided a platform for meaningful discussions on important issues related to the country’s future. It was a successful event that brought together a diverse group of academicians to share their insights and ideas on how to transform post-conflict Ethiopia into a more peaceful and prosperous nation.

More than 600 participants including University presidents, researchers, academia, Aba Gedas, religious leaders, Hada Sinkes, Community representatives were in attendance for the two-day international conference.