In a pivotal move to enhance aerospace and technical education, a high-level delegation from Jimma University, led by President Dr. Jemal Abafita, recently wrapped up a fruitful week-long visit to the University of West Bohemia (UWB) in Pilsen, Czech Republic.
Taking place in mid-September, the visit aimed to solidify collaboration under the EthioTech project, an initiative funded by the Czech Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The primary goal is to bolster a newly launched aerospace engineering program at Jimma University, addressing Ethiopia’s increasing need for skilled aviation professionals.
This visit signifies a strategic expansion of the long-standing partnership between the two institutions. Historically focused on social sciences through the Faculty of Philosophy, this new phase of collaboration under the EthioTech project ventures into essential technical fields. The delegation engaged in high-level meetings with UWB Rector Miroslav Lávička, participated in detailed working sessions with various faculties, and toured UWB’s advanced RTI and NTC research centers.
Both institutions hailed this partnership as a significant milestone in international academic cooperation. Martin Melichar, Vice-Dean of UWB’s Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, remarked that this collaboration “confirms the long-term interest of foreign institutions in working together on the introduction of new study programs that directly influence both industrial and academic development in the region.”
The partnership also encompasses biomechanics and curriculum development. Jan Záhořík from UWB’s Faculty of Philosophy highlighted, “Jimma University has long been our partner university… The EthioTech project presents an excellent opportunity to broaden this collaboration into additional fields.”
The delegation’s comprehensive program included participation in UWB’s Science and Technology Day, offering valuable insights into public engagement with research. Looking ahead, UWB experts are scheduled to visit Jimma in November to initiate curriculum analysis and specialized training in mechanical engineering and biomechanics.
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