Education and Training Authority and Policy Studies Institute signed MOU

In a significant move to enhance the quality of education and training in Ethiopia, the Ethiopian Education and Training Authority (ETA) and the Policy Studies Institute (PSI) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on March 26, 2025. This partnership is set to pave the way for collaborative efforts aimed at addressing various educational challenges and improving educational standards across the nation. The MOU underscores a shared commitment between the two organizations to work together on research, policy implementation, and the development of effective educational tools, signaling a new chapter in their joint efforts to contribute to Ethiopia's national development. The signing ceremony was attended by key officials from both institutions, marking a milestone in their collaborative endeavors. In the signing ceremony, Mr. Fekadu Tsega, Director General of PSI, welcomed the ETA delegation and reminded them of their familiarity, mentioning that there was no need for an explanation today since they already knew each other. He stated that PSI collaborates with all government agencies on policy matters and highlighted that the institute is divided into two sectors: economic and social. Mr. Fekadu noted that their social sector is closely coordinating with the Ethiopian Education and Training Authority (ETA). Mr. Fekadu mentioned that the Ethiopian Education and Training Authority (ETA) bears significant responsibilities regarding various educational issues in Ethiopia, including quality concerns, while PSI also plays a crucial role in monitoring policy implementation and identifying gaps. As both organizations are part of the government, there is an opportunity for deeper collaboration, particularly through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). Although signing the MOU may not guarantee accountability, it serves as a clear reminder of our commitments. He emphasized that PSI is actively collaborating with various national and international organizations in the education sector and that the MOU would facilitate the revision of our plans. He concluded by expressing gratitude to ETA for visiting PSI and participating in the MOU signing, highlighting its contribution to the country's national development. Next, Dr. Dunkana Negussa, Deputy Director for the accreditation and Standardization sector of the Ethiopian Education and Training Authority, expressed his gratitude to everyone who contributed to making this day a reality. He stated that, as the name suggests, ETA was established to enhance the quality of education and training in Ethiopia. He noted that his previous mandate under HERQA was limited, but now, as ETA, the organization has a much broader and more significant mandate, encompassing numerous responsibilities in the TVET and higher education sectors. He further mentioned that while the regions have primary authority over general education, ETA collaborates with them to maintain quality standards and tools. Dr. Dunkana explained that the ETA oversees, audits, and tracks educational institutions, providing licenses, pre-accreditations, and accreditations to various educational entities. To fulfill its expanded roles, the ETA emphasizes research, which is why it seeks to collaborate with PSI. He concluded by stating that the signing of today's MOU marks the beginning of a more extensive collaboration for the future. As the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding between ETA and PSI concludes, both organizations express their enthusiasm for the collaborative journey ahead. This partnership is not only a formal agreement but a commitment to work collectively towards fostering an educational environment that meets the needs of Ethiopia's diverse population. With a focus on research and the development of innovative educational policies, ETA and PSI aim to enhance the quality and accessibility of education across the country. Both parties reaffirm their dedication to accountability and excellence, ensuring that this collaboration will yield meaningful and lasting impacts on Ethiopia’s educational landscape. The future looks promising as they embark on this new chapter together, committed to shaping a brighter future for the nation's learners.