Dear Students, Faculty, Staff, and Visitors,
The Technology Transfer and Community Engagement
Directorate at Werabe University (WRU) is dedicated to promoting innovation and
fostering collaboration between the academic community and local populations. By
effectively translating research breakthroughs into practical applications, our
office aims to empower local industries and drive sustainable development
across the university’s three catchment areas.
Through strategic partnerships, outreach initiatives, and
comprehensive community engagement, we work to ensure that the benefits of
technological advancements are accessible to all members of society enhancing
economic growth and improving overall quality of life. In alignment with the
Ethiopian Higher Education Proclamation No. 650/2009 and its revised version,
Proclamation No. 1152/2019, community service stands as one of the three
primary mandates of universities. This legislation obligates academic staff to
actively participate in community service; fulfilling their responsibilities
not only to the institution but also to the communities they serve.
At WRU, senate legislation requires all faculty members to
dedicate 15% of their working hours to community service activities,
reaffirming our strong commitment to societal well-being. Higher education
institutions play a crucial role in advancing community service by focusing on
thematic areas that address both local and national priorities. At Werabe
University, we have identified four key thematic areas:
1. Business and Economics
2. Agriculture
3. Tourism
4. Technology
These focus areas reflect the pressing needs of our
communities and the potential for impactful contributions from our academic
expertise. To implement these priorities effectively, our academic staff engage
in delivering research and technological outputs, while also exploring,
enhancing, and utilizing indigenous knowledge to address community challenges.
Faculty members align their initiatives with the university’s thematic priorities, creating a strong synergy between academic research and community needs. Importantly, this commitment extends beyond academic staff students are also encouraged to participate in various activities, fostering a culture of service, responsibility, and leadership.
This collaborative approach not only enriches the
educational experience for our students but also amplifies the positive impact
on the communities we serve. Together with the combined efforts of faculty, students,
and local stakeholders we aim to create a vibrant ecosystem of innovation and
engagement that benefits both the university and society at large.
By harnessing the power of education and research, Werabe
University is committed to making a lasting difference in the lives of
individuals and in the broader community.
Sincerely,
Jemal Redwan, MBA, MPM
Director, Technology Transfer and Community Engagement
Email: jemal.redwan@gmail.com | jemal@wru.edu.et
Phone: +251 913 164 026
