Holeta Polytechnic College held its annual workshop for the 2023/24 work plan on July 22, 2023 in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia to discuss the work plan is to support the establishment of the proposed Centre of Excellence in Agro-processing. The Centre is expected to contribute to the development of an agriculture-led industrial economy in Ethiopia.
The workshop brought together key stakeholders, including College management members and the project implementation unit (PIU). Their collective aim was to discuss and fine-tune planned activities while ensuring an effective budget allocation.
Staff of Holeta Polytechnic College during the budget validation workshop
The workplan plan focuses on achieving the strategic investment plan (SIP) in Agro Processing, specifically in Dairy Processing Technology and Fruit and Vegetable Processing Technology. It aims to deliver high-quality, outcome-based training that will supply competent, motivated, and innovative middle and low-level workforce with the necessary technological skills for the implementation of an agriculture-led industrial economy in Ethiopia.
The total budget planned for the financial year 2023/24 is USD13,715,564. Of the total budget planned for the upcoming 2023/24 fiscal year, 70% will be allocated to construction projects. This includes the construction of a G+4 student dormitory, G+4 student classrooms, a G+1 teaching factory, powerhouses, and road infrastructure. Such investments in infrastructure lay a solid foundation for future agro-processing advancements.
Another aspect of the budget is the allocation for procuring teaching factory and laboratory tools. This accounts for 14.6% of the budget, highlighting the College’s commitment to providing state-of-the-art resources. These tools, including generators, will empower students to gain hands-on experience in agro-processing techniques, further cementing their expertise. The remaining budget is allocated for capacity building, supporting non-project national TVET colleges, and ensuring institutional readiness.
By Dawit Tadesse, the Monitoring and Evaluation Officer for EASTRIP Project at Holeta Polytechnic College