The delegates had an intensive discussion with WSU management on a joint development project launched five years ago that aimed at supporting the socio-economic transformation of Wolaita.

Dr Guchie Gulie, President of Wolaita Sodo University, welcomed the team of scholars from University College Dublin, led by Prof Pat Gibbons, Director of Centre for Humanitarian Action, UCD on May 22, 2024.

Based on the Building Resilience through Education (BRTE) project agreement, the two institutions have been jointly working in partnership—student and staff exchange, joint research projects, postgraduate scholarships, experience sharing, curriculum development, and similar activities.

Dr. Berhanu Kuma, BRTE Project Coordinator at WSU, gave a presentation on the framework of the project and the tasks completed within the project lifespan.

Prof. Pat, lead of the BRTE project, pointed out during the discussion that the strong relationships and partnership that has been established during the Horizon 2020 BRTE project gave impetus to engage in new initiatives upholding the BRTE philosophy, concepts, and operations.

Dr. Guchie Gulie, President of WSU, confirmed to the delegates that WSU remains committed to sustaining the established partnership, keeping the mutually beneficial relationship established, and ensuring that the delegates will be properly supported during their stay and achieve the objectives of the visit.

The delegates finally visited the Wolaita Cultural Museum, which resides on the main campus, and other educational facilities and developmental activities.