Debre Berhan University (DBU) and the Armauer Hansen Research Institute (AHRI) have formalized a strategic alliance through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), signifying their commitment to collaborative research for national development. The MOU establishes a framework for cooperation across several key areas, including: Biomedical and Clinical Research, Product Development, Research Infrastructure, Capacity Building, and Graduate Education.

AHRI brings to this partnership 55 years of experience as a leading national institution in health research, innovation, development, and product research. DBU, a second-generation applied university with 16 years of experience, contributes its strengths in the mandated focus areas of health, agriculture, engineering and technology, and business and economics.

Professor Afework Kassu, Director General of AHRI, expressed his enthusiasm for partnering with DBU, recognizing its hub of accomplished researchers. He noted AHRI’s deep institutional knowledge and extensive experience in traditional medicine within the North Shewa zone of the Amhara region, emphasizing the potential for collaboration in this area. He further elaborated that the partnership will expand upon the existing indigenous medicinal plant enhancement project in Ankober, including clinical trials and new research endeavors.

Dr. Nigus Tadesse, President of Debre Berhan University, emphasized the need for educational systems to be relevant to the national context. He underscored the importance of enhancing indigenous knowledge, ensuring its continuity, and acknowledging the contributions of those who hold it. He stated that Ethiopia can emulate the development strategies of other nations by leveraging existing strengths, incorporating new knowledge, and working collaboratively for national advancement.

Dr. Nigus further highlighted the shared goals of both institutions as the foundation for the partnership, particularly emphasizing the significance of the ongoing collaboration in enhancing medicinal plants and developing pharmaceuticals from indigenous resources, which he noted would be a substantial achievement for the nation.