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Bishoftu, March 6, 2025 (EDU) The Ethiopian Defence University and Arba Minch University have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to work together in research, technology transfer, and teaching.
EDU Commandant Brigadier General Kebede Regasa, who signed the memorandum of understanding on behalf of the university, emphasized that the university is working on developing the defence forces to a better level than ever before.
The commandant added that the university is striving to make its students more competent in the field of technology, as the activities of armed forces and intelligence institutions are increasingly becoming digital at the international level. He also explained that the document signed with Arba Minch University, which is the oldest in the field of engineering and technology, is helpful for the work the university is doing, with a special focus on improving the educational capacity of the army.
In addition, Brigadier General Kebede stated that the Ethiopian Defence University demonstrates its strong desire and willingness to cooperate with other universities and similar institutions in the country. He highlighted that beyond academic collaboration, the MoU serves as a framework to strengthen resource generation initiatives and promote sustainable partnerships. The commandant emphasized that EDU is committed to leveraging its expertise to enhance institutional capacity and develop innovative solutions that contribute to national development.
Brigadier General Kebede, who mentioned that the research conducted by the Biodiversity and Biotechnology Institute of Arba Minch University on using False Banana (Enset) flour to make various biscuits was admirable, suggested that the research work should be carried out in a way that ensures the nutritional content is well studied and a means of providing it to the army as an alternative food is created.
Furthermore, he underscored the importance of community engagement and service, emphasizing that universities must go beyond academic excellence to play a vital role in addressing societal challenges. He commended Arba Minch University’s efforts in community-based projects and encouraged further collaboration in areas that benefit local communities, including agricultural development, environmental conservation, and public health initiatives.
The university president, Dr. Eng Abdella Kemal, who signed the memorandum of understanding on behalf of Arba Minch University, stated that working together with the Ethiopian Defence University is also a duty of citizenship paid to the country.
The president also explained that the memorandum of understanding enables the exchange of teachers and students in the field of engineering and other areas of education, curriculum design, joint use of various educational and research resources, and collaborative research activities.
He stated that his university will create a project in a short period of time to ensure that the nutritional content of the crackers prepared from the plant is well studied and a way to provide them to the army as an alternative food is developed.
Ethiopian Defence University Academic Affairs M/Commandant Dr. Tesfaye Tolu explained that, according to the memorandum of understanding, cooperation in engineering, health, biotechnology, and other fields is not a matter of time.
On the part of Arba Minch University, Vice President of Academic Affairs Dr.Eng Bogale G/Mariam confirmed that there is a strong desire on the part of his university to work together in teaching, research, and technology transfer.
The senior management members of the Ethiopian Defence University visited various engineering laboratories and the Biodiversity Institute on the main campus, including the newly built Teaching and Comprehensive Specialized Hospital of Arba Minch University.
On behalf of EDU, Commandant Brigadier General Kebede Regasa presented an appreciation gift, recognizing AMU’s positive cooperation and significant contributions to the country. He emphasized that this gesture symbolizes the strong partnership between the two institutions and reinforces their commitment to future joint endeavors in research, technology transfer, and education.
The event further solidified the institutions' shared vision of advancing knowledge, innovation, and national development.
Report by: Ethiopian Defence University Public Relations Team
