EiTEX, BDU and NILEST Agreed to Collaborate for Dual Degree Programs

The Ethiopian Institute of Textile and Fashion Technology (EiTEX), Bahir Dar University (BDU) agreed with the Nigerian Institute of Leather and Science Technology (NILEST) to start a dual degree in Leather Technology and Footwear Design Technology based on the memorandum of understanding the two institutes signed. The agreement is made following numerous discussions and thorough assessments of the realities in the leather sector, especially in Africa, and possible considerations that higher institutions could intervene to change the scenario. 

EiTEX, BDU has been accepting students from eastern African countries such as Uganda, Tanzania and Kenya expanding its capacity and accessibility to international education and training demands. Accepting and teaching students from Nigeria and awarding degrees is considered as addressing the needs of young professionals and entrepreneurs not only from the east but also from the west Africa. Visiting EiTEX/ Selam campus and the facilities, the delegates of NILEST, Dr. Auwal Mustapha Imam Director General / Chief Executive Officer, NILEST; Dr. Jerry Tagang Director, Distance Learning, NILEST and Engr. Ibrahim Balarabe Mohammed, Director, Academic Planning, NILEST acknowledged the endeavors of the institute. 

Dr. Auwal Mustapha expressed his appreciation and willingness of EiTEX, BDU to work with NILEST and expressed that his institution is fully committed to work with EiTEX, BDU to mutually benefit from this collaboration. Professor Tamrat Tesfaye, the scientific Director of EiTEX stated that EiTEX, BDU is working towards excellence in research, science, technology etc. in Textile, Apparel, Leather, Fashion Design and upcoming areas, and working with partners collaboratively is significant. He also acknowledged the technical skills and qualities in NILEST claiming that the two institutions will contribute a lot in the modern leather product technology and innovation.