21/07/2026
Borana University Hosts Research Seminar on Early Childhood Interventions in the Global South
Borana University | July 21, 2026
In a major step toward fostering international research collaboration, Borana University hosted a landmark research seminar on “Early Childhood Interventions in the Global South” in partnership with the University of Zurich, Switzerland. The seminar brought together a diverse group of participants, including university management, lecturers, administrative staff, and scholars.
Mr. Galma Wako, Director of the Research, Publication, Ethics, and Dissemination, opened the event by welcoming participants and providing a detailed overview of the seminar's objectives and session.
Following his overview, Dr. Kula Jilo, Borana University's Vice President for Administration and Development Affairs delivered an official welcoming address emphasizing the vital role of early childhood development in shaping the future of communities and nations.
Dr. Kula noted that Borana University, situated within the heart of the Borana pastoral community and guided by rich indigenous knowledge and the values of the Gadaa System, recognizes the importance of integrating local wisdom with scientific research to advance child well-being and sustainable development.
He further highlighted that the seminar reflects the university’s commitment to research excellence, serving as an important platform to strengthen academic collaboration between Borana University and the University of Zurich through joint research, knowledge exchange, and community-centered initiatives.
He concluded by encouraging participants to actively engage in discussions, share experiences, and build lasting professional partnerships that contribute to a meaningful impact in early childhood development and beyond.
In his opening remarks, Mr. Bonaya Galma, Advisor to the Vice President for Academic and Research Affairs, highlighted the seminar as a vital catalyst for academic growth and academic evolution, extending a warm welcome to distinguished scholars from the University of Zurich: Assistant Professor Gabriel Scheidecker and PhD candidate and researcher, Mr. Wario Wako.
Mr. Bonaya emphasized, "This seminar is a vital dialogue between global research methodology and lived indigenous wisdom. Child-rearing in pastoralist communities is deeply rooted in our unique cultural and kinship systems." He added that Borana University looks forward to deepening its collaboration with the University of Zurich through joint research, co-supervision, and academic exchanges—pairing global rigor with invaluable local expertise to uplift pastoral communities.
Mrs. Obsitu Duba, Director for International Research Relations and Partnerships, then delivered a brief overview of Borana University. She introduced the participants to the university's history, academic achievements, and community engagement initiatives, emphasizing its ongoing contributions to sustainable development and the preservation of indigenous knowledge.
During the seminar, Prof. Gabriel Scheidecker from the University of Zurich, Switzerland, and Mr. Wario Wako, a PhD candidate and researcher, delivered a compelling and intellectually enriching joint presentation on “Early Childhood Interventions in the Global South.” The presenters shared valuable research findings and critical insights regarding the significance of early childhood interventions in promoting holistic development, social inclusion, and long-term well-being for children.
Their engaging presentation inspired productive, lively discussions among the participants and underscored the critical importance of collaborative efforts in advancing evidence-based approaches to early childhood development across the Global South.
Ultimately, the seminar successfully laid a strong foundation for future cross-continental research alliances and collaborative academic initiatives. By combining global academic rigor with deep indigenous insights, Borana University reaffirmed its steadfast commitment to advancing evidence-based inquiry and expanding high-impact scientific research within pastoralist contexts.
"Dedicated to Resilient Pastoral Future"
Public and International Relations Executive
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