AAU-Sida Projects’ Coordination Office (SPCO) organized the Annual Review and Planning Meeting at AAU Senate Hall in collaboration with the Embassy of Sweden in Addis Ababa, Addis Ababa.
As per the agreement signed between AAU and Sida represented by the Embassy of Sweden in Addis Ababa on 07 July 2018 and amended in 09 October 2023), Sida Projects’ Coordination Office (SPCO) in collaboration with the Embassy of Sweden in Addis Ababa conducted Annual Planning and Review Meetings of Swedish and Ethiopian professors for two days (16 – 17 May 2024) at AAU Senate Hall, Addis Ababa University main campus. In these two days, the activities of the year ending on 31 December 2024 were reviewed and the proposed plans of 2025 were presented.
The meeting was opened by Dr. Samuel Kifle, Interim President of AAU and His Excellency Mr. Hans Henric Lundquist, Ambassador of Sweden to Ethiopia.
In his welcoming speech Dr. Samuel Kifle stated that the AAU-Sida partnership has been instrumental in transforming Addis Ababa University. AAU is now a stronger, more autonomous institution with a robust research focus. This is evident in the dramatic increase of PhD graduates, from under 10 per year before 2008 to over 200 currently. AAU’s international reputation has also grown, attracting students from abroad. The project’s impact extends beyond AAU, positively influencing teaching and learning across Ethiopian universities, government bodies, and NGOs.
Mr. Hans Henric Lundquist, Ambassador of Sweden to Ethiopia in his opening speech mentioned that the AAU-Sweden partnership meeting celebrated its 44-years of history of strengthening Ethiopian education. Both sides acknowledged the upcoming conclusion of the bilateral research cooperation in 2025 by the Swedish government. However, a commitment to a smooth transition was emphasized, with a focus on supporting remaining students. Discussions explored potential synergies with existing AAU programs and collaborations. Representatives from the EU Science and Research program presented funding opportunities. The meeting highlighted the importance of Ethiopian leadership reflecting on future directions and engaging in open dialogue. The Ethiopian research portfolio will be transferred to Sida HQ in Stockholm by August 15th, signifying a shift but not the end of research collaboration within the broader development program.
Mrs. Blen Adem, Policy Assistant for Research and Innovation Delegation of the European Union to the Africa Union, shared European Union Research and Innovation Opportunities and Funding Participation of Addis Ababa University and recommended principal investigators of the AAU-Sida Projects to make sure their next program to be planned in a way to contribute not only to Ethiopia but also to the East Africa, possibly in collaboration with the EU.
Dr. Amina Jama also mentioned that it is important not to miss funding opportunities especially on gender and inclusion and suggest all project leaders to think broader.
Professor Brook Lemma, the Sida Projects’ Coordinator, delivered a closing speech highlighting the achievements of programs. He emphasized the wealth of knowledge gained, including PhD graduates, valuable experiences, and collaboration with Swedish professors. He expressed pride in the program success and offered a hopeful outlook for the future.
Mrs. Åsa Andersson, Deputy Head of Mission, Development Cooperation mentioned in the meeting that, despite facing significant challenges, AAU-Sida Projects continue supporting PhD students. The Embassy of Sweden acknowledged the difficulties the program encountered and understands the impacts. She also emphasized that the Embassy of Sweden in Addis Ababa is doing everything it can to support the remaining PhD students to complete their research work. Additionally, she also pointed out that the administration of the remaining part of the AAU-Sida agreement will be transferred to Stockholm Sida headquarters to ensure its continued operation until 2025.
