BDU, ARARI, and FHEIAR renew MoU

(May 7, 2026, BDU)

Bahir Dar University (BDU), the Amhara Agricultural Research Institute (ARARI), and the Forum for Higher Education Institutions in the Amhara Region (FHEIAR) have renewed their Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen collaboration in agricultural research, training, and community service.

The agreement is signed on May 7, 2026 at Bahir Dar University by Prof. Eneyew Adgo, Vice President for Research and Community Engagement at BDU, Dr. Semagn Asrade, Deputy Director General of ARARI, and Dr. Jejaw Demamu, Secretary of the Forum. The renewed five-year MoU updates the previous agreement that expired in March 2026, incorporating lessons learned and new developments to create a comprehensive strategic and operational partnership framework involving ARARI’s research centers, ten universities in the Amhara Region, and the Forum.

It aims to eliminate duplication of efforts, optimize the use of limited human and material resources, align research priorities with regional and national needs, and accelerate the development and dissemination of agricultural technologies for the benefit of smallholder farmers. Key provisions include the exchange of scientific staff for teaching and mentoring, hosting of student internships, tuition exemptions for ARARI researchers at partner universities, and the establishment of a competitive joint research fund for collaborative projects.

Dr. Semagn Asrade emphasized that the renewal enables more coordinated and effective collaboration through joint resource utilization, capacity building, and problem-solving innovation. Dr. Jejaw Demamu highlighted the need for stronger integration between universities and research institutions, while Prof. Eneyew Adgo noted that the MoU elevates the existing strong partnership between BDU and ARARI to a higher level, with a strong focus on practical implementation and close coordination.

All parties expressed commitment to regular monitoring, evaluation, and full execution of the agreement to foster a more harmonious, efficient, and impactful agricultural system that supports the economic transformation of the region and improves farmers’ livelihoods.