Undergraduate Mechanical Engineering Program Curriculum Revision Workshop
Wollega University, Institute of Technology
School of Mechanical Engineering
Date: December 30, 2025
The School of Mechanical Engineering at Wollega University organized a curriculum revision workshop for the Undergraduate Mechanical Engineering Program on December 30, 2025. The event was hosted in collaboration with the Institute of Technology and supported by the INDMET Project. The workshop was facilitated by Dr. Geleta Fikadu.
The program began with a welcome address from Dr. Ginbar Ensarmu, Dean of the Institute of Technology. He emphasized the importance of updating the curriculum to meet current academic standards and industry expectations.
This was followed by the official opening speech from Dr. Melka Hika, Academic Vice President of Wollega University. He expressed appreciation to the Institute of Technology and the INDMET Project team for initiating the revision process. He highlighted the University’s ongoing transformation toward becoming a University of Applied Science and aligned this effort with the national reform agenda of the Ministry of Education. He stressed the need for a practical, skills-oriented curriculum that enhances laboratory learning and hands-on experience. He also thanked participants for their commitment and encouraged them to provide insightful contributions.
Next, Dr. Endalkachew Mosisa, INDMET Project Coordinator, presented an overview of the curriculum revision process. He explained how the review began, the training provided to support staff, the identification of curriculum gaps, and the development of the first draft. He also outlined the purpose of the current workshop and the steps that will follow.
Mr. Jabessa Adula from the Department of Mechanical Engineering then presented the revised curriculum. His presentation highlighted feedback collected from industries, employers, and alumni. The major focus areas included strengthening practical skills, enhancing competence, encouraging innovation and creativity, improving critical thinking, and increasing graduate employability.
Constructive comments and technical insights were provided by external reviewers:
- Dr. Dinku Siyoum, Addis Ababa Science and Technology University
- Professor Hipha L, University of Stavanger, Norway
- Mr. Adane Abdeta, Addis Ababa City Bus Enterprise
- Mr. Belay Zerihun, Fincha Sugar Factory
Internal review feedback was presented by Dr. Begna Hordofa from Wollega University. This was followed by reflection, open discussion, and professional dialogue among participants, which helped enrich the proposed curriculum.
Finally, the workshop concluded with closing remarks from Dr. Ginbar Ensarmu. He appreciated the active engagement, constructive feedback, and strong commitment of all participants. He expressed confidence that the revised curriculum will significantly improve the quality of the Mechanical Engineering program and better prepare graduates for future professional roles.
Overall, the workshop was successful and productive, providing valuable direction for finalizing the revised curriculum.
