By our staff reporter
The Ethiopian Management Professional Association (EMPA), a long-standing professional group focused on elevating industry expertise, has welcomed the Ethiopian Management Institute (EMI) as a member to contribute to its mission. During the EMPA general assembly held on Saturday, January 27, at Addis Ababa University’s FBE Campus, Eshetu Chole Hall, members made the decision to play a significant role in the leadership sector.
Numerous research studies and experts have highlighted the lack of competent leadership and administrative skills as a substantial challenge in both public and private sector workplaces. EMPA, founded in the 1980s with the aim of assisting the industry, has experienced various ups and downs over the past three decades. However, in the past four years, the association has been actively operational after a period of suspension, according to Dawit Wubshet, a departing board member.
“The industry is constantly evolving, and it is our responsibility to meet the growing demand for skilled and high-caliber managers across various fields, while also establishing effective structures for public and private entities,” Dawit emphasized, acknowledging the significant role played by other professional associations in their respective fields.
EMPA has initiated several projects in recent years, and these endeavors are expected to further develop in the coming years. Its members consist of former students and educators with leadership training experience, many of whom are currently working in various fields, including teaching.
EMI, a public company that has been providing management development services in Ethiopia since 1956, has joined EMPA as a member. This collaboration creates a valuable synergy that is expected to enhance EMPA’s role, as stated by the former board member. In addition to the election of new board members, six subcommittees, including marketing, research, and mobilization, have been established to strengthen the association’s activities.
EMPA has been actively engaged in capacity building, training, research, advocacy, and the promotion of innovative ideas. Due to the overwhelming demand, there is an agreement to expand the association’s operations. Despite the rapid expansion of the nation’s economy, management needs have not received the attention they deserve, according to Dawit. He emphasized the importance of providing proper attention to professional leadership to sustain the growth momentum.
Workneh Kassa, an associate professor at AAU, and Mekbeb Kifle, one of the EMPA founders, have been reelected as president and vice president, respectively, to lead the organization’s activities.
