Strengthening Entrepreneurship and Innovation Across Universities: EDI Concludes PEIEB Workshop at Debre Markos University

Debre Markos, Ethiopia | September 23, 2026 The Entrepreneurship Development Institute (EDI), in collaboration with Debre Markos University, has successfully concluded a three-day Public Entrepreneurship and Innovation Ecosystem Building (PEIEB) Workshop, designed to strengthen entrepreneurial leadership, innovation within the university.

The workshop, held from September 21–23, 2026, brought together senior and middle-level university leaders, deans, directors, and members of the strategic planning team. It focused on equipping leaders with practical approaches and competencies to identify opportunities, develop innovative solutions, mobilize resources, and create sustainable value for the university and the wider community.

During the three-day workshop, participants explored entrepreneurial competencies and assessed their strengths and areas for development. The sessions encouraged participants to take personal responsibility for initiating value-creating solutions and to apply innovative approaches to challenges within and beyond their organizations.

The PEIEB workshop is designed to accelerate entrepreneurship and innovation across the public sector by enabling leaders and professionals to develop and implement value-creation initiatives that improve service delivery and organizational outcomes.

Dr. Sayeh Kasaw, President of Debre Markos University, emphasized the importance of strengthening leadership capacity to address institutional challenges, broaden perspectives, encourage innovation, and improve organizational performance. He noted that the training provides university leaders with practical approaches and skills to rethink leadership practices and address priority challenges.

he also emphasized the importance of translating the knowledge and skills gained through the workshop into practical solutions that address community challenges and create meaningful benefits. He expressed appreciation to EDI for delivering the training and presented certificates of recognition to participating leaders.

Dr. Beza Muche, Dean of the College of Business and Economics at Debre Markos University, said the training was closely aligned with the university’s mission. He noted that the workshop encouraged a shift in leadership thinking and provided new perspectives for improving teaching and learning, research, and community service.

Yibeltal Tareken, Director of the University’s Employment and Entrepreneurship Development Center, emphasized the importance of developing an entrepreneurial mindset among university leaders. He noted that strengthening entrepreneurial leadership would help the university focus on sustainable value creation and develop solutions that respond to institutional and community needs.

This initiative reflects EDI’s commitment to strengthening entrepreneurship and innovation across higher education institutions, supporting them in their transformation to become entrepreneurial universities.