A seven-day intensive training on grant writing was successfully delivered to staff of the Wollega University Institute of Health Sciences (IHS) and the Nekemte Public Health Research and Referral Laboratory (NPHRRL). The training, which concluded recently, was facilitated by Dr. Eshetu Dabala, a senior researcher from the Ethiopian Public Health Institute (EPHI).
The comprehensive capacity-building program focused on equipping participants with essential skills for drafting high-quality research proposals and navigating complex international grant application processes. This initiative aligns with broader efforts to strengthen Ethiopia’s public health research capacity and secure competitive funding for critical health studies.
In his final message, Dr. Eshetu Dabala expressed his profound satisfaction with the dedication displayed throughout the training. “I have seen commitment with my own eyes,” he stated, highly appreciating the enthusiasm of both the trainees and the institutional leaders. He reaffirmed his personal commitment to continue working closely with both Wollega University and NPHRRL in future research endeavors, promising ongoing technical support beyond the training.
Adding to the discourse, Nigatu Addisu, Research Affairs Director of the Institute of Health Sciences, stressed that such training must be extended to all staff to fully equip the entire workforce and expressed his deep appreciation to the leaders of both institutions—Dr. Meseret Belete, Chief Executive Director of the IHS-WU, and Mr. Demeke Jabesa, CEO of NPHRRL—for their unwavering commitment and support towards the success of this training.
In her closing remarks, Mrs. Lemane Dereje, Director of the Studies, Research and Community Service Directorate of the HIS-Wollega University, underscored the strategic importance of collaborative research. She highlighted that the partnership between the university and NPHRRL is vital for generating evidence to address regional health priorities. She emphasized that the skills acquired during the training are a crucial step toward fostering a robust research environment. Echoing this sentiment, Demeke Jabesa, CEO of NPHRRL, reinforced the purpose of conducting joint research. He reiterated the commitment of his institution to collaborate with Wollega University to bridge the gap between research and practice. Both leaders concurred on the way forward, which involves fostering a culture of research, developing actionable proposals, and leveraging their joint expertise to contribute to the national health agenda.
The training concluded with both parties committing to a sustained partnership to ensure the translation of research findings into tangible community health outcomes.
August 19,2026
