Madda Walabu University has successfully organized a public seminar under the theme “Transforming Tourism and Hospitality: Real-Time Data, Professional Readiness, and Innovation.” The event was conducted in a structured and engaging manner, bringing together key stakeholders from diverse sectors to deliberate on the advancement of the tourism and hospitality industry.
The seminar attracted participants from Culture & tourism offices, the tourism commission, hotels, parks, and professional tour guides, alongside Madda Walabu Universitty undergraduate students of Tourism and Hotel Management and other relevant stakeholders.
The program commenced with a welcoming and opening address delivered by the Madda Walabu University’s Academic, Research, Technology Transfer, and Community Service Vice President, Dr. Bezabih Wondimu. He highlighted the strategic importance of tourism and hospitality in national development and underscored the need for innovation, skilled human capital, and effective utilization of real-time data.
A keynote presentation was delivered by the special guest, Mr. Yohannes Paulos, who addressed the topic “Strengthening Hospitality and Tourism Growth through Reliable Data and Professional Human Capital.” His presentation emphasized the critical role of accurate data systems and competent professionals in driving sustainable growth and competitiveness in the sector.
In addition, two scholarly presentations were delivered by Scholars from Madda Walabu University’s Department of Tourism and Hotel Management by Dr. Hadis Tadele & Mr. Fikadu Lema. These presentations explored pressing tourism-related concerns and provided academic and practical insights into improving industry performance.
Following the presentations, participants actively engaged in discussions, raising pertinent questions, sharing experiences, and offering constructive recommendations. The interactive session fostered a collaborative environment and enriched the overall outcomes of the seminar.
In his concluding remarks, Dr. Bezabih Wondimu outlined key way-forward strategies, stressing the importance of continued collaboration among stakeholders, strengthening academic-industry linkages, and enhancing capacity building initiatives.
The seminar concluded with the awarding of certificates to presenters in recognition of their valuable contributions. Overall, the event reaffirmed Madda Walabu University’s commitment to promoting research, innovation, and community engagement in support of the tourism and hospitality sector.
1 April 2026, MWU Public & International Relations Office
