The Status of Research Undertaking in the Ethiopian Higher Institutions of Learning with Special Emphasis on AAU

Abstract

One of the primary objectives of universities is the search for truth, advancement and refinement of knowledge by conducting both basic and applied research. Currently, research has been considered as one of the key tasks of institutions of higher learning not only as a matter of formality but for teaching effectively. Research should keep abreast with teaching and should help to raise the quality of teaching. Thus, research has been recognized as twin broad functions of higher education. Strengthening research and analytic capacity in higher education is an essential requirement for the improvement of development. Policies and practices, and the decisions taken regarding them, must be informed by the results of systematic, well-conceived research. Considerable progress has been so far achieved by the Addis Ababa University in this regard. However, much more needs to be done because of factors that are affecting the research environment. The challenges which tend to make conducting research in the Addis Ababa University difficult are factors within and outside the university. These can be a function of the material, human and financial organization of the University as well as the level of research culture among persons who are supposed to carry out and utilize research. The contribution of researches undertaken by the university is also hindered by its limited applicability to societal needs. Thus, attention must be paid to (a) improving the funding of both basic and applied research, (b) furthering work on advanced technologies of critical social and economic need of the country, (c) improving the preparation of researchers, (d) setting up adequate structures for the coordination, dissemination and publication of research results, (e) working to make research activities an integral part of university’s public service functions, and (f) reducing duplication through inter-institutional cooperation involving both researchers and facilities.