The Board of Directors of Wollega University, in its one-day meeting held with the University Management on February 14, 2026 (Yekatit 7, 2018 E.C.), reviewed the University’s overall half-year (six-month) performance report for the 2018 fiscal year. Based on the review, the Board provided recommendations and strategic directions on key priority areas for the upcoming period.
The Board members, led by the Vice Chairperson, Professor Derbew Belay, conducted the meeting in Addis Ababa, where they thoroughly evaluated the University’s six-month performance report for the 2018 fiscal year.
During the evaluation, it was noted that the report was well-prepared in terms of content, presentation, process, and outcomes, and that it serves as an encouraging indication of performance progress. In relation to national reform agendas, it was emphasized that university–industry linkages should move beyond the signing of Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) into practical implementation. It was also highlighted that additional resources and support should be mobilized in alignment with the University’s priority focus areas. Furthermore, the review identified that the participation of women in academic and administrative staff—particularly at the second and third degree levels—and in leadership positions remains low.
On the other hand, it was observed that the implementation of benefit identification outputs has not been fully completed. Although efforts to modernize the University’s systems are underway, greater
attention is required to fully automate service delivery processes. The Board also stressed that Artificial Intelligence (AI) should not only be integrated into teaching–learning and research activities but also into the University’s overall operations. It was further recommended that attention be given to unresolved issues identified through satisfaction survey results, that service delivery be aligned with established standards, and that staff performance be evaluated based on results rather than traditional approaches. Key areas such as KPIs, exit examination preparation and outcomes, promotion of indigenous knowledge, and income-generating activities were also presented and reviewed in detail. The University President, Dr. Tesfaye Lemma, along with his management team, provided responses and clarifications on the issues raised.
Overall, the half-year (six-month) performance review was found to be encouraging. It demonstrated positive progress in reform agendas, the University’s priority areas, and the implementation of strategic plans, indicating that achieving the annual plan is feasible. The Board also provided directives on priority areas to be addressed in the remaining period and outlined focus areas for the upcoming 2019 fiscal year.