Ethiopian Physicists Convene, Focus on Boosting Student Enrollment and Educational Quality
The 19th annual conference of the Society of Ethiopian Physicists, held at Haramaya University, concluded with a strong emphasis on addressing the declining number of students pursuing physics degrees and enhancing the quality of physics education nationwide.
Themed “Enabling the Community and Applying Physics Education and Research for Sustainable Development,” the conference brought together 150 physicists from various universities.
Prof. Mengistu Urge, Vice President of Academic Affairs at Haramaya University, expressed concern over the dwindling enrollment in physics departments and urged the society to take immediate action.
Prof. Fekadu Gashaw, President of the Society, highlighted the organization’s role in monitoring and improving physics education in Ethiopia. He proposed a collaborative approach, advocating for universities to work closely with secondary schools to assess and enhance physics education for students in grades 9-12.
“Physics provides fundamental insights into the natural world and fosters collaboration,” Prof. Fekadu stated. “Strengthening physics education is crucial for national development.”
The Ethiopian Space Science and Geospatial Institute reaffirmed its commitment by signing a five-year memorandum of understanding to sponsor the Society, as announced by Deputy Director General Abdulrazak Umar.
The conference featured presentations of diverse research articles and findings, fostering valuable discussions among participants from both Ethiopian and international institutions. Mrs. Bekelu Abeba, head of the physics department at Haramaya University, highlighted the success of the assembly in facilitating knowledge exchange and collaboration.
Reporter: – Habtamu H/Giorgis
Photographers: – Tewodros Lishan & Foad Ahmed
Haramaya University Public & International Relations Directorate