Arba Minch University to Host a Landmark National Research Symposium – April 17, 2026
Arba Minch University (AMU), one of Ethiopia’s leading public higher education institutions, is proud to announce the 12th National Research Symposium on Science for Sustainable Development, scheduled to take place on April 17, 2026, at its main campus in Arba Minch, Ethiopia. This prestigious national academic event brings together researchers, academicians, scientists, health professionals, and development practitioners from across the country to engage in scholarly dialogue that supports Ethiopia’s sustainable development agenda.
Organized under the theme “Science for Sustainable Development,” the symposium serves as a vital platform for knowledge exchange, interdisciplinary collaboration, and policy-relevant research dissemination. The event reflects Arba Minch University’s continued commitment to advancing research excellence, innovation, and community-oriented solutions that address Ethiopia’s pressing socio-economic, environmental, and health challenges.
The Importance of National Research Symposia in Ethiopia
In today’s rapidly changing world, science and research play a central role in shaping sustainable societies. For a country like Ethiopia—characterized by rapid population growth, climate vulnerability, health system challenges, and economic transformation—evidence-based research is not optional; it is essential.
National research symposia provide:
- A forum for sharing original research findings
- Opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration
- A bridge between academia, policy makers, and practitioners
- A space to mentor early-career researchers and postgraduate students
The 12th National Research Symposium on Science for Sustainable Development aligns directly with Ethiopia’s national development priorities, including agricultural transformation, health system strengthening, environmental protection, and the application of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and advanced modeling.
About Arba Minch University
Arba Minch University, located in Southern Ethiopia, is internationally recognized for its strengths in applied sciences, agriculture, health sciences, environmental studies, and technology-driven research. The university has consistently expanded its research output, community engagement programs, and postgraduate training.
Through hosting its 12th national research symposium, AMU reinforces its role as:
- A hub for applied and interdisciplinary research
- A catalyst for sustainable development solutions
- A platform for national and regional academic collaboration
The university’s scenic location near forests, lakes, and diverse ecosystems also symbolically reflects the symposium’s emphasis on sustainability and environmental stewardship.
Theme of the Symposium: Science for Sustainable Development
The overarching theme, “Science for Sustainable Development,” highlights the indispensable role of scientific research in achieving long-term economic growth, social well-being, and environmental sustainability.
Sustainable development requires:
- Innovative agricultural practices
- Resilient health systems
- Responsible natural resource management
- Technological advancement aligned with human needs
This symposium encourages research that not only advances academic knowledge but also offers practical, scalable, and locally relevant solutions to Ethiopia’s development challenges.
Call for Papers: Invitation to Researchers and Academicians
Arba Minch University cordially invites researchers, faculty members, postgraduate students, scientists, and professionals from Ethiopian universities, research institutions, hospitals, government agencies, and NGOs to submit original research abstracts and full papers for presentation at the symposium.
Submissions should align with one of the symposium’s three major thematic areas, each carefully designed to reflect national priorities and global scientific trends.
Thematic Areas
Theme 1: Agricultural Sciences
Agriculture remains the backbone of Ethiopia’s economy, employing the majority of the population and contributing significantly to national GDP. Research under this theme focuses on improving productivity, sustainability, and resilience in agricultural systems.
Key Sub-Themes Include:
- Crop and Livestock Production and Productivity Improvement
Research addressing improved crop varieties, livestock breeding, disease management, irrigation systems, and sustainable farming practices. - Conservation and Resource Management
Studies on soil conservation, water resource management, climate-smart agriculture, biodiversity protection, and ecosystem restoration. - Nutrition and Post-Harvest Technologies
Innovations aimed at reducing post-harvest losses, improving food storage and processing, and enhancing nutritional outcomes.
This theme encourages research that directly supports food security, rural livelihoods, and climate resilience in Ethiopia.
Theme 2: Natural Sciences
The natural sciences provide the foundational knowledge necessary for technological innovation, environmental protection, and risk mitigation. This theme highlights cutting-edge research that integrates traditional scientific disciplines with modern computational and analytical tools.
Key Sub-Themes Include:
- AI-based Statistical and Mathematical Modeling and Material Discovery
Research applying artificial intelligence, machine learning, and advanced modeling techniques to solve scientific and industrial problems. - Integrated Earth Resources, Hazards, and Environmental Management
Studies on geology, hydrology, disaster risk reduction, climate change impacts, and sustainable use of natural resources. - Advances in Moringa and Medicinal Plants Research
Research exploring Ethiopia’s rich biodiversity, medicinal plants, nutraceuticals, and indigenous knowledge systems.
This theme reflects Ethiopia’s growing interest in science-driven innovation and sustainable natural resource utilization.
Theme 3: Medicine and Health Sciences
Health is a cornerstone of sustainable development. This theme addresses both long-standing and emerging health challenges facing Ethiopia and similar low- and middle-income countries.
Key Sub-Themes Include:
- Neglected Tropical Diseases and Therapeutics of Infectious Diseases
Research on prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and control of infectious and neglected tropical diseases. - Maternal and Child Nutrition
Studies focusing on nutrition interventions, maternal health, child development, and public health strategies. - Health Systems
Research on health policy, service delivery, health financing, workforce development, and digital health innovations.
This theme emphasizes applied research that strengthens Ethiopia’s health system and improves population health outcomes.
Submission Guidelines
To ensure quality and consistency, authors are required to adhere strictly to the symposium’s submission guidelines.
Abstract Submission
- Maximum length: 300 words
- Abstract must clearly state:
- Research objectives
- Methodology
- Key findings
- Relevance to the selected theme
Full Paper Submission
- Maximum length: 8,000 words
- Format:
- Microsoft Word
- Font: Times New Roman
- Font size: 12
- Line spacing: 1.5
Originality Requirement
All submissions must be:
- Original
- Unpublished
- Not under review elsewhere
Author Information
Each submission must include:
- Corresponding author’s full name
- Institutional affiliation
- Email address
- Phone number
Theme Indication
Authors must clearly indicate the theme they are applying under in the abstract.
Publication Opportunity
All accepted papers will be published in the official Conference Proceedings, providing authors with:
- Academic visibility
- Citation opportunities
- Recognition at the national level
This publication opportunity is particularly valuable for early-career researchers and postgraduate students.
Important Dates to Remember
- Abstract Submission Deadline: February 13, 2026
- Abstract Acceptance Notification: February 28, 2026
- Full Paper Submission Deadline: March 12, 2026
- Invitation Letter for Attendees: April 10, 2026
- Symposium Date: April 17, 2026
Timely submission is strongly encouraged.
Submission and Contact Information
Abstract Submission Email
Official Website
🌐 https://www.amu.edu.et/en/ssd-home
Theme Coordinators
- Theme 1 (Agricultural Sciences):
Mr. Agidew Abebe (Asst. Prof.)
Phone: +251 913 963 893 - Theme 2 (Natural Sciences):
Shetie Gatew (PhD)
Phone: +251 904 852 420 - Theme 3 (Medicine and Health Sciences):
Mr. Abinet G/Mickael (Asst. Prof.)
Phone: +251 925 924 290
Why You Should Participate
Participating in the 12th National Research Symposium on Science for Sustainable Development offers numerous benefits:
- Share your research with a national audience
- Receive constructive feedback from experts
- Build academic and professional networks
- Contribute to Ethiopia’s sustainable development goals
- Enhance your academic profile
Conclusion
The 12th National Research Symposium on Science for Sustainable Development, hosted by Arba Minch University, represents a critical milestone in Ethiopia’s academic and research landscape. By bringing together diverse disciplines under a unified vision of sustainability, the symposium fosters innovation, collaboration, and impact-driven research.
Researchers across Ethiopia are strongly encouraged to seize this opportunity to showcase their work, contribute to national development, and engage in meaningful scientific dialogue.
Science shapes the future—and the future of sustainable development begins here.
