St. Mary’s University conducted two important orientation programs for postgraduate students on November 5 and November 7, 2026, aimed at enhancing students’ academic preparedness and research capacity.

On November 5, 2026, the University organized a comprehensive orientation program for newly admitted postgraduate students to familiarize them with the University’s academic environment, policies, support services, and quality assurance systems. The session was opened by Ato Samuel Fantaye, Director of the Student Support Service Office (SSSO), who underscored the importance of utilizing the various support services available to students throughout their studies.

In his welcoming address, Dr. Melaku Girma, Head of the School of Graduate Studies Coordination Office, congratulated the incoming postgraduate students on joining St. Mary’s University and encouraged them to uphold academic excellence, engage actively in research, and make the most of the opportunities offered by the University. He also briefed participants on postgraduate academic expectations, assessment procedures, and the responsibilities of graduate students.

Dr. Dembel Bedo, Acting Dean of the Institute of Business Development Studies (IBDS), provided remarks on key aspects of postgraduate education, emphasizing academic commitment, professional ethics, and the importance of independent learning and research in graduate studies.

The orientation also featured presentations from representatives of the Research and Knowledge Management Office (RaKMO), Registrar’s Office, and University Library, who introduced students to the services and resources available to support their academic success. The briefings covered registration procedures, academic regulations, research support mechanisms, access to library resources, digital learning platforms, and other essential student services.

In addition, the University’s Management Representative for the ISO Quality Management System delivered a presentation on the University’s quality management practices, familiarizing students with the institution’s commitment to continuous improvement, quality assurance, and student-centered service delivery.

On November 7, 2026, the University conducted a Thesis Writing Orientation Program for prospective graduating postgraduate students at the University Library. The event brought together approximately 90 students and focused on thesis writing procedures, manuscript preparation, research ethics, thesis structure, institutional research priorities, and publication opportunities.

During the orientation, Dr. Melaku Girma presented the University’s thesis writing guidelines and manuscript preparation requirements, while Dr. Dembel Bedo discussed key issues related to postgraduate research and thesis writing. Ato Matheas Shimelis of the Research and Knowledge Management Office (RaKMO) introduced students to the University’s research thematic areas, research support systems, and scholarly publication platforms.

Both programs included interactive question-and-answer sessions that allowed students to seek clarification on academic, administrative, and research-related matters. The events concluded with remarks by Ato Samuel Fantaye, who reaffirmed the University’s commitment to providing comprehensive support for postgraduate students throughout their academic and research endeavors.