Ethiopian scholars must actively craft sustainable solutions to the nation’s multifaceted problems, officials declared during a recent consultation forum.
The call to action came during the "Role of Scholars for a Successful National Consultation" forum in Bahir Dar, organised by the Ethiopian National Dialogue Commission, and attended by academics representing ten universities across the Amhara region.
Yonas Adaye (PhD), Commissioner of the Ethiopian National Dialogue Commission, emphasised the pivotal role of consultation in mending political divisions, fostering mutual trust between citizens and government, solidifying democratic foundations, and preempting future conflicts.
His remarks underscored the Commission's commitment to embedding consultation as a fundamental political practice within Ethiopia.
The forum served as a critical platform to discuss and refine the national consultation process, acknowledging scholars as vital contributors to its success.
The Commission believes that the expertise and insights of academics are crucial for navigating complex issues and achieving meaningful, long-term stability.
"We believe deeply that scholars bring unique perspectives and research-backed knowledge to the table. Their involvement is not merely welcome, but essential, for achieving a truly inclusive and effective national dialogue,” said Yonas.
The consultation process, initiated by the Ethiopian government, aims to address deep-seated historical grievances, promote reconciliation, and forge a shared national vision.
The Commission is tasked with facilitating open discussions across various segments of society, gathering diverse viewpoints, and ultimately formulating recommendations for policy reforms and institutional improvements.
The forum highlighted the need for scholars to engage beyond theoretical analysis and translate their research into practical strategies that can be implemented at the grassroots level. Discussions centred on how academics can contribute to data collection, analysis, and dissemination of information, ensuring that the consultation process is informed by evidence and grounded in reality.
Participants explored mechanisms for fostering collaboration between universities, government agencies, and civil society organisations.
This collaborative approach seeks to bridge the gap between academia and policymaking, creating a dynamic synergy to accelerate progress towards a more inclusive and prosperous Ethiopia. The Commission anticipates that continued engagement with scholars will lead to a more robust and impactful national consultation, laying the groundwork for a stable and democratic future.
