St. Mary’s University (SMU) held the 18th National Student Research Forum at St. Mary’s University, Multi-purpose Hall on July 25, 2024.This annual event, dubbed “By Students, for Students” continues to provide an invaluable platform for undergraduate students from various higher learning institutions to share their Senior Essay findings to students and the SMU community.

For the last 17 years, this Forum has been a cornerstone for academic exchange where students can showcase their research and learn from one another.

The event started by the inspiring opening remark delivered by Ato Tedla Haile, Executive Vice President of St. Mary’s University. He appreciatedthe presenters for their confidence and resilience to reach this stage after passing successfully defending their papers in front of their advisors before facing a larger audience.

“Today’s paper presenters  are  part of the new generation who are to take up diverse positions  in  the civil service , business and industry  in the year ahead,”  he remarked.

Every aspect of the forum was driven by students. From the Master of Ceremony to the Chairpersons and Rapporteurs, students took the lead in the event. This provided them with opportunities to enhance their skills, further preparing them for future professional accomplishments.

The Forum featured eight research papers from a wide range of disciplines, including Capital Market, Impact of E-Marketing, Cooperatives, Information System Practice, and Finance by students from Arsi University and St. Mary’s University.

After the presentations, lively discussions ensued, with participants asking questions and engaging in insightful conversations with the presenters. This interactive session allowed the presenters to explain their research in more details and receive valuable recommendations and suggestions.

Matheas Shimelis (Ass. Prof.), Director of the Research and Knowledge Management office, highlighted that the primary goal of the Forum is to provide an opportunity for students to practice presenting their research at a professional conference.

 He also noted that the diversity of topics covered was a testament to the breadth of talent and creativity inherent in the student community.

He acknowledged the hard work and contributions of the entire SMU staff who worked tirelessly to make the event a success and officially declared the 18th National Student Research Forum closed.

The forum concluded with Ato Ayele Legesse, Director of Short Term Training and Consultancy, presenting certificates to the participants.