Mizan-Tepi University, through its Office of the Vice President for Research and Community Engagement, conducted its annual Coffee and Spice Forum on October 13, 2018 E.C., with the participation of key stakeholders.
Recognizing that coffee and spices are major export commodities that generate significant foreign exchange for Ethiopia, participants emphasized the vital role of farmers, students, agricultural experts, and higher education institutions in enhancing competitiveness and productivity at all levels.
Opening the forum, Dr. Askale G/Michael, Director of the Research, Publication Ethics, and Dissemination Directorate, welcomed guests and members of the university community. She noted that the forum was organized as part of Mizan-Tepi University’s mandate from the Ministry of Education—to cultivate a strong research culture, promote research activities, and strengthen community engagement efforts.
Following the opening session, Dr. Tsegaye Babege and Mr. Andualem Arimo, university lecturers and researchers, presented discussion papers that sparked extensive dialogue. The forum served as a valuable platform for questions, comments, and the exchange of ideas, yielding constructive feedback and insights.
The event brought together participants from various institutions, including representatives from the Southwestern Regional Agricultural Research Center, the Tepi Agricultural Research Center, university instructors, researchers, and students.