Why is your research on small and medium-sized enterprises important for Ethiopia?
Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are a vital component of Ethiopia's economy. They generate employment opportunities, support local production, and contribute to poverty reduction. However, many SMEs encounter difficulties in innovation, productivity, and international competitiveness. My research indicates that internationalization, learning capability, and innovation are essential for Ethiopian SMEs to achieve sustainable growth, generate employment opportunities, and compete effectively in regional and global markets.
One of the main arguments of your research is that exposure to global markets alone is not sufficient to generate innovation in the economy. Could you provide some examples of how globalization has negatively affected economic development in Ethiopia?
Globalization can create opportunities, but if local capabilities are lacking, it can also pose risks. In Ethiopia, some SMEs face challenges due to the import of cheaper products, which has a negative effect on local industries. The export of raw materials without value addition has the potential to limit both learning and income opportunities. A failure to adapt foreign technology locally has the potential to diminish domestic innovation capacity.
In Italy, small and medium-sized enterprises are very widespread. What aspects of this organizational model could be transferred to Ethiopia?
Italy's experience in family entrepreneurship, specialization, quality production, industrial clusters, and close cooperation between firms and local institutions offers valuable insights for businesses. Ethiopia can benefit from initiatives that encourage SME networks, value-added manufacturing, craftsmanship, export orientation, and stronger links between business, finance, and universities.
How can collaboration between African and Italian universities foster development?
Collaboration can build human capital, research capacity, and innovation ecosystems. The joint research, staff and student mobility, technology transfer, and curriculum development that we are involved in help solve real economic and social challenges. Such collaborations also encourage mutual learning and long-term institutional strengthening.
What have you learned from attending courses in Milan?
Studying in Milan really exposed me to international academic standards and encouraged me to think more interdisciplinarily. I gained confidence in modern research methods and learned to evaluate information carefully. My courses really enhanced my critical analysis and decision-making skills, teaching me to use data and reliable sources. The program also offered a global perspective on how business and development strategies differ across countries and cultures. Finally, working with all kinds of classmates and professors showed me the importance of networking and teamwork for finding better solutions.
What are your future professional plans?
My future plans are to continue working in higher education, research, and policy engagement. I would like to contribute to the strengthening of entrepreneurship, SME development, innovation systems, and internationalization strategies in Ethiopia and Africa. Furthermore, I am keen to promote enhanced academic collaboration between institutions on both the African and European continents.
How would you evaluate your experience at Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore?
My experience has been extremely rewarding, both academically and personally. The university offered an excellent research environment, committed professors, and an international community. I am especially grateful for the mentorship, academic rigor, and welcoming atmosphere that supported my growth as a scholar.
