St. Mary’s University (SMU) held the 16th Multi-disciplinary Seminar at St. Mary’s University, Multi-purpose Hall on July 11, 2024. This seminar has brought together scholars, researchers, practitioners, and development partners from various fields to share research findings and discussed in important issues.

Over the past 15 years, this seminar has been attended by more than 160 research papers.

The seminar started with a speech by SMU founder and president, Wondwosen Tamrat (PhD, Asso. Prof.). He highlighted that this seminar “is known for bringing together experts from various backgrounds and a multitude of multidisciplinary topics that address a variety of subjects and themes of societal importance”.

“The diversity of the topics is a clear indication of what the seminar is all about. The background of presenters is suggestive of how this platform is contributing its share toward the increasing public private-partnership the Ethiopian higher education sector needs”, he remarked.

He acknowledged the university community’s crucial role in the event’s success.

In the 16th Multidisciplinary Seminar, nine research papers were presented, covering a diverse range of subjects such as University Education, Technology, Food Security, Women’s Empowerment, Economics, Conflict Resolution, Agriculture, Social Capital, and Children’s School Experiences.

After the presentations, there were lively discussions where participants asked questions and had insightful conversations with the presenters. This helped presenters explain their research in more detail and encouraged everyone to exchange ideas.

Notably, one-third of the presenters were women. This representation enriched the seminar by bringing various perspectives and insights to the forefront, contributing to a more comprehensive understanding of the issues addressed.

The seminar concluded with remarks by Misganaw Solomon (PhD), Vice President for Research and International Relations at SMU. He highlighted that this Seminar is the second research forum SMU held this academic year after a month and a half since the university organized the 22nd International Conference on Private Higher Education in Africa.

He noted the diverse range of papers presented across various disciplines, making the seminar truly multi-disciplinary and reflecting SMU’s commitment to contributing to Ethiopia’s strategic plans, even in areas where it does not provide formal training.

Looking ahead, he announced two upcoming research activities i.e. the annual National Student Research Forum and the annual National Open and Distance Learning Seminar, scheduled for the next two months.

Dr. Misganaw expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the researchers who presented at the seminar as well as the SMU offices that worked tirelessly to make the event a success. 

St. Mary’s University organizes four national and international conferences annually.