RAN Newsletter 01/2025 “Everything you see in Heidelberg reminds you of the importance of scientific pursuit”

Why did you choose Heidelberg University?

The name Heidelberg stands for research and science. Heidelberg is a beautiful place where people from all over the world meet and where multidisciplinary and multicultural research takes place. Everything you see in Heidelberg reminds you of the importance of scientific pursuit. Therefore, the question should be: “Why shouldn't I choose Heidelberg University?”

What did you learn in Heidelberg? Which experiences were particularly valuable?

My goal was to complete my doctorate, which I achieved thanks to the excellent scientific and kind supervision of my doctoral advisor. But Heidelberg was more than just the place of my doctorate. In Heidelberg, I became a culturally educated person, inspired by the many students from all over the world. I also learned how much Germans value effectiveness and efficiency. One thing that impressed me was how German democracy works. I also had the opportunity to visit many schools and learn how the education system in Germany works and how strongly democracy is lived in the classroom. Another lesson I learned during my stay in Heidelberg is respect for nature: A walk along the Neckar is like listening to music that inspires the soul.

What did you like best about being in Heidelberg? What suggestions would you have for improvements?

I would like to answer this question in two ways: regarding the university and regarding the city. The university is not only the oldest in the German-speaking world but also one of the leading ones. I had the opportunity to get to know the various faculties of the university and to speak with students and professors from different fields. All of this leads me to conclude that Heidelberg University takes science to the next level. The city, in turn, is very beautiful, and the university is an integral part of it.
What I could recommend: A friend of mine who studied in Finland told me that every student there is connected with a family living in the city. This helped him better understand Finnish culture.

How did your career continue after your time in Heidelberg? 

After my time in Heidelberg, I returned to my country with great enthusiasm. My first task was working as an advisor for the then Ministry of Science and Higher Education of Ethiopia – a position made possible by the Center for International Migration and Development. I was part of a national study team tasked with differentiating the country's higher education system. One of the tasks was to compare best practices from around the world. Of course, we also had the opportunity to study the German higher education system and even took a study trip to Germany. 

Considering the needs in my country, we were particularly impressed by the concept of German universities of applied sciences. The close connection of these universities with the needs of industry and the type of education is amazing. Our work was published by Springer under the title "Differentiating the Higher Education System of Ethiopia". 

Afterwards, I moved to Kotebe University of Education. I have held various positions there. Currently, I am the Director of Research and Publication.

How do you assess the German science system compared to that of your home country or other countries where you have conducted research?

The science system in Germany contributes greatly to the promotion of theoretical understanding in various fields. In addition, there is a clear effort to combine theoretical knowledge with practical understanding. Science in Germany is full of successes on both levels.

In your opinion, what is the significance of international exchange for researchers?

My reading regarding International exchanges informed me that such experiences make an important contribution to personal and cultural maturity, academic and professional development, as well as networking, adaptability, etc. I would say that I experienced all of this in Heidelberg.

Would you recommend a research stay at Heidelberg University to your students or colleagues from your scientific network?

Certainly! Heidelberg has all the qualities one could wish for in a university.

You are a HAI mentor and as such support, encourage, inspire, and help those seeking advice. Why are you involved in this programme?

I feel that I have greatly benefited from my time in Heidelberg, and I firmly believe that I must give something back. Furthermore, contact with a young researcher is part of professional development.