A delegation of UNICEF Ethiopia, led by Mrs. Rachana Sharma, Chief of Social Behavioral Change Program, visited Hawassa University to discuss potential collaborations.

Dr. Ayano Beraso, President of HU, Vice presidents for research and technology transfer and academic affairs, as well as scientific staff of HU warmly received the UNICEF officials at HU Senate meeting Hall. The President expressed the university's keen interest in partnering with UNICEF, emphasizing that HU's ongoing transition towards autonomous research university calls for more commitment to fostering collaborations with both national and international partners.

Dr. Emebet Bekele, Director General at Office of External Relations and Communication, HU, presented highlights of HU's endeavors and achievements in internationalization and partnership so far.

Mrs. Rachana Sharma also presented the overview of potential partnerships in social behavioral change, highlighting the role of institutions, academia, students and collaborative efforts in implementing SBC initiatives at HU.

Dr. Tafesse Matewos, VPRTT at HU on his part, suggested forming a team of researchers with multidisciplinary backgrounds and assess further potential for the envisioned partnership.