February 9/2025 (PIRE)

Mattu University hosted the 8th National Research Conference, with the theme "Societal Transformation Through Cutting Edge and Innovative Research," which was a significant event that brought together researchers, academics, and thought leaders to discuss the role of research in driving societal change. Dr. Bedilu Teka, Vice President for Academic, Research, Technology Transfer, and Community Services at Mattu University set the tone in his opening speech by emphasizing the critical role of research in addressing societal challenges. He highlighted that “societal transformation is driven by economic development, social movements, technological innovations, and policy changes, all of which aim to improve quality of life, promote equity, and build resilience.” 

Dr. Bedilu underscored the importance of this historical moment, where the intersection of research and societal needs is more crucial than ever. He called for a responsible and purposeful approach to research, stressing that findings should not only advance knowledge; but also act as catalysts for positive societal change. His remarks resonated with the conference's theme, which focused on the profound impact of innovative research on society. 

The conference featured keynote speeches from prominent researchers, including Dr. Berhanu Belay, a researcher at ICARDA, and Prof. Sultan Suleman from Jimma University. Both shared their experiences and insights, contributing to the rich discourse on the transformative power of research.

A total of 35 selected research findings were presented by researchers from various higher education institutions and research centers. These presentations likely covered a wide range of topics aligned with the conference's theme, showcasing how cutting-edge and innovative research can address pressing societal issues and drive meaningful transformation. Overall, the conference served as a platform for collaboration, knowledge sharing, and inspiration, reinforcing the importance of research in shaping a better future for society. 

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