Examining Community Service Practices at Addis Ababa University

Abstract

The study aims to examine community service practices and the methods by which the service is implemented at Addis Ababa University. A qualitative research strategy was adopted, incorporating a case study approach, with data collected from faculty members, department heads, community service personnel, and associate deans through interviews and analysis of relevant documents. Situations attributed to deficiencies in directives, strategic documentation, leadership support, and the structural arrangement of the community service mission hinder the faculty from actively engaging in community service missions. Though the study found that the community service tasks implemented have been limited, some strategies/ways promoted include project-based community engagement activities funded by external bodies, university-initiated and funded engagements, community service-learning/field education, and volunteerism/individual staff-initiated engagements. The results of the study imply the necessity of creating clear guideline that facilitates the engagement of academic staff in community service initiatives, awareness-raising sessions for the faculty on community service, promoting a culture of engagement and empathy, and establishing partnerships in different units of the university. These can lead to the successful accomplishment of the mission.