Mattu University and the Ethiopia Space Science and Geospatial Institute (ESSGI) recently held high-level discussions aimed at forging a strategic partnership to enhance research, education, and innovation in space science and geospatial technologies, particularly in GIS and Remote Sensing. The meeting emphasized mutual interests in leveraging scientific collaboration to support sustainable development efforts in Ethiopia. Key areas of discussion includes joint research and innovation projects focused on the application of geospatial technology in natural resource monitoring and assessment, forest management, climate resilience, and , Land use Planning,  and Precision Agriculture. The partnership also aims to promote collaborative studies in disaster risk reduction and natural resource management using geospatial and space-based technologies.
Academic and capacity-building initiatives formed another major pillar of the discussions, with plans for faculty exchanges, internships, externships, and specialized training programs. Both institutions expressed a commitment to developing academic programs and short-term courses in space science and geospatial disciplines. The partnership will further focus on technology transfer and infrastructure development. This includes sharing geospatial data, tools, and best practices, as well as utilizing ESSGI’s satellite capabilities such as the Ethiopian Remote Sensing Satellite for academic and research purposes. 
Mr. Kedir Harfo, the representative of ESSGI, emphasized that the collaboration aligns with Ethiopia’s national development priorities and space program. He noted that working with Mattu University would significantly contribute to strengthening scientific capacity and achieving technological self-reliance in key sectors.
Dr. Diriba Gemechu, Academic Directorate Director at Mattu University, highlighted how this collaboration would enhance the university’s academic quality, increase research output, and create more opportunities for students through joint programs and externships. 
Mr. Zenebe Reta Roba, Dean, College of Natural Resource and Agricultural Economics at Mattu University, presented several potential research initiatives that could be implemented through the partnership. These include studies on landslide hazard zonation and susceptibility mapping using geospatial techniques, evaluation of land capability and classification for sustainable land use planning, forest cover change and carbon stock assessments, and the integration of smart land-use planning through geospatial technology and etc .
The collaboration is fully aligned with Ethiopia’s Space Policy and Digital Transformation Strategy, both of which prioritize the use of geospatial technologies to support the country’s long-term sustainable growth. By leveraging Mattu University’s strong academic foundation and ESSGI’s advanced technical capabilities, the collaboration is poised to elevate Ethiopia’s standing as a hub for space science and geospatial innovation in the region. The institutions plan to formalize and  finalize a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that will outline specific collaborative projects, funding mechanisms, and implementation frameworks.

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