11/05/2026
Werabe University Holds 1st International Research Conference on Innovation for SDGs and Global Resilience
Werabe University has officially launched its 1st International Research Conference under the theme “Innovation for the SDGs and Global Resilience,” marking a historic milestone in the university’s academic and research journey.
The international conference brought together scholars, researchers, policymakers, international partners, university leaders, students, and community representatives from Ethiopia and abroad to discuss innovative solutions for sustainable development and global resilience.
The conference was officially opened by H.E. Kora Tushune, State Minister of Education (MoE) and Guest of Honor. In his keynote opening speech, he emphasized that universities must engage with society in a holistic manner and ensure that knowledge is actively applied to solve societal problems.
“Research must not remain confined within institutions,” the State Minister stated, adding that research should contribute to improving irrigation systems, strengthening public administration, supporting local enterprises, informing educational reform, and enhancing human well-being.
The State Minister also highlighted that innovation is not only about advanced technology, but also about mindset, courage, creativity, and the willingness to transform challenges into opportunities. He encouraged students and young researchers to embrace curiosity, imagination, and responsibility as foundations for leadership and innovation.
President of Werabe University, Dr. Ing. Towfik Jemal, described the conference as a defining moment for the university as it expands from national annual research conferences to an international research platform.
Speaking under the message “Global Participation for Local Actions,” the president stated that the university is committed to becoming one of Ethiopia’s leading comprehensive universities with meaningful global impact through excellence in teaching, research, innovation, technology transfer, and community engagement.
He announced that the conference received more than 200 research paper submissions from across the world.
Following a rigorous peer-review process, 43 high-quality research papers from 12 countries were selected for presentation.
The conference showcased growing research interest in Artificial Intelligence and its applications in higher education, digital transformation, innovation systems, and service delivery.
Vice President for Academic, Research, Technology Transfer and Community Engagement, Anwar Ahmed, welcomed participants and highlighted the university’s recent achievements in research, innovation, and community engagement.
He stated that Werabe University has developed innovative technologies such as the Graduate Document Verification System (GDVS), e-Learning Management System, Clinical Management System, and several agricultural technologies.
According to the Vice President, the university is collaborating with international institutions including Yeungnam University, Ovidius University of Romania, Bradford International Business School of India, the University of Rwanda, and many more.
During the event, Prof. LEE Sang H. from Yeungnam University delivered an online message of appreciation regarding the successful organization of the conference.
Keynote speaker Prof. Delenesaw Yewhalaw also presented his keynote address and appreciated the leadership of Werabe University for organizing a successful international conference that promotes research collaboration and knowledge exchange.
Participants from universities, research institutions, government offices, and international organizations attended the conference both physically and virtually.
Organizers stated that the conference will continue tomorrow with additional parallel research presentations and scholarly discussions.