The conference examined the dynamic interplay between technology entrepreneurship and business models, explored taxation challenges within the evolving e-commerce landscape, and delved into the potential of machine learning techniques for combating fake news.

Researchers shed light on the crucial links between agricultural employment and economic growth, investigated tourism's role in urban poverty reduction, and assessed service quality perceptions within higher education institutions. Additionally, crucial healthcare topics like healthcare provider practices towards Hepatitis B, determinants of acute respiratory infections in children, and medication administration errors among nurses were addressed

Papers explored the importance of adaptive technology for inclusively integrating visually impaired students into higher education, identified pitfalls of rapid e-teaching adoption during the pandemic, and analyzed the current state of UIL (Universal Instructional Language) implementation in Ethiopian universities. The conference also critically examined academic cheating and its implications for education and peacebuilding.

• Identify knowledge gaps in basic business concepts, market identification, and startup execution.
• Assess understanding of financial forecasting, funding options, and risk management.
• Evaluate skills in communication, pitching, and building networks.

• Determine proficiency in basic accounting principles, record-keeping methods, and financial software.
• Gauge accuracy and efficiency in financial transactions, invoicing, and payroll management.
• Analyze compliance with financial regulations and reporting requirements

• Assess customer service skills, including communication, conflict resolution, and problem-solving.
• Evaluate understanding of customer needs, expectations, and feedback mechanisms.
• Identify opportunities for improving customer acquisition, retention, and loyalty.

• Developed training programs: Tailored training modules to address specific gaps and skill deficiencies identified in each area.
• Prioritized learning: Implement training in the most critical areas first, based on impact and urgency
• Improved performance: Track progress and measure the effectiveness of training in enhancing employee skills and business outcomes
• Increased efficiency: Streamline processes and workflows based on identified opportunities for optimization
• Enhanced customer satisfaction: Improve customer interactions and relationships through effective training in customer handling.
• Boosted morale and engagement: Provide employees with opportunities to learn and grow, leading to increased job satisfaction and performance.
• Data-driven decisions: Base future training initiatives on concrete data and insights gleaned from the assessment.

• Enhance research capacity of academic staff through training in quantitative and qualitative data analysis and reporting.
• Equip faculty with advanced skills in research methodologies and knowledge of best practices for data analysis and interpretation.
• Improve the quality and rigor of research conducted by academic staff within the institution.
• Increase the publication rate of faculty members in peer-reviewed journals and reputable conferences.
• Strengthen the research profile of the institution through faculty contributions to the wider academic community
• Develop the faculty's ability to effectively guide and advise undergraduate and postgraduate research projects.

• Increased proportion of academic staff actively engaged in research activities.
• Improved quality and efficiency of data collection, analysis, and interpretation among faculty researchers
• Enhanced clarity and accuracy of research reports and publications produced by faculty members
• Increased number of research publications by faculty in high-impact peer-reviewed journals and conferences
• Improved research outputs from undergraduate and postgraduate projects guided by faculty with stronger research skills.
• Enhanced reputation and recognition of the institution as a center for high-quality research and scholarship.
• Increased access to research funding and grants due to improved research proposals and outcomes
• A more research-oriented and knowledge-driven academic environment within the institution

• Equip faculty and staff with the principles and practices of Kaizen, empowering them to identify and implement improvements in their daily work.
• Foster a collaborative environment where individuals from diverse roles can work together to streamline processes, address challenges, and optimize outcomes
• Develop problem-solving skills and critical thinking abilities, encouraging proactive approaches to achieving continuous improvement.
• Enhance job satisfaction and motivation by providing staff and faculty with tools to make a tangible impact on their work environment.
• Cultivate a culture of continuous learning and innovation within the university, where Kaizen becomes an embedded principle guiding institutional development.

• Increased efficiency and productivity across various departments and functions within the university.
• Improved service quality and user experience for both students and faculty members
• Reduced waste, errors, and redundancy in work processes, leading to cost savings and resource optimization
• Enhanced collaboration and communication between faculty and staff, fostering a stronger sense of community and shared purpose.
• A sustained commitment to continuous improvement, with Kaizen principles continuously applied to identify and implement further advancements.
• vi. A more dynamic and adaptive institutional environment, readily embracing change and challenges as opportunities for growth

Dr. Habtamu Teka, President of Harambee University, set the stage with a thought-provoking discussion on navigating organizational change and development. His insights resonated with faculty and staff alike, offering valuable tools for navigating the ever-evolving landscape of higher education.

Dr. Fetene Regassa, Vice President for Research and Community Service, delved into the vital role of upholding higher education values in achieving quality education. His presentation offered a critical lens for examining our own practices and striving for continuous improvement.

Lessons from Indonesian Universities: Dr. Bekele Shibiru, Vice President for Postgraduate Programs and International Relations, embarked on a knowledge journey, sharing valuable lessons gleaned from his experiences with Indonesian universities. This global perspective sparked lively discussions on adapting best practices and nurturing international collaborations.

Dr. Semu Bacha, Advisor to CEO, shifted the focus to the customer – our students. His thought-provoking presentation examined the intricate link between student satisfaction and building a university of repute, offering strategic insights for enhancing the student experience.

Dr. Lemma Dadhi, Vice President for Quality Assurance, explored the critical role of textbooks in student success. His comprehensive analysis offered valuable considerations for selecting, utilizing, and even creating effective learning materials.

Dr. Lemma Dadhi, in another insightful presentation, tackled the crucial topic of competency-based curriculum development for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programs. His expertise provided valuable guidance for ensuring our TVET programs equip students with the skills and knowledge they need to thrive in the workforce