AI, Education and International Collaboration Come Together
Artificial intelligence is transforming industries around the world, and higher education is no exception. To explore its growing impact on tourism and hospitality education, Madda Walabu University hosted the 2nd International Conference: Reimagining Tourism and Hospitality Education Through Artificial Intelligence in Bale Robe, Ethiopia.
The two-day international conference welcomed academics, researchers, policymakers, innovators, government officials, and industry experts from across the world to exchange ideas, share research, and discuss how AI is shaping the future of education.
Building Stronger
UK–Ethiopia Educational Partnerships
One of the conference’s key objectives was to strengthen collaboration between universities, educational organisations, and industry leaders from Ethiopia and the United Kingdom.
As an organisation dedicated to connecting educational institutions globally, LinkD was proud to contribute to these conversations and support initiatives that encourage academic excellence beyond borders.
The event created opportunities for meaningful discussions around research, innovation, digital transformation, and international education, encouraging long-term partnerships that will benefit students, educators, and institutions in both countries.
LinkD's Keynote Presentation
A key highlight of the conference was the keynote presentation delivered by
Shakeel Ahmed, Founder of LinkD
The presentation focused on how international collaboration can strengthen higher education through strategic partnerships, Transnational Education (TNE) frameworks, scholarship pathways, and research collaboration.It also explored how universities can create greater opportunities for students while building stronger academic connections between the United Kingdom and Ethiopia.The session encouraged valuable discussions among university leaders, researchers, policymakers, and international delegates on expanding access to quality education through global collaboration.
Expanding Access and Excellence: UK–Ethiopia Higher Education Collaborations, TNE Frameworks, and Scholarship Pathways
Recognised for Supporting International Education
In recognition of his contribution to the conference, Shakeel Ahmed was presented with a Certificate of Recognition for delivering his keynote presentation.
The award reflects LinkD’s ongoing commitment to supporting universities through international partnerships, educational collaboration, and knowledge exchange.
As LinkD continues to build bridges between institutions across different countries, recognitions such as this reinforce its mission to create meaningful opportunities that benefit students, educators, and academic communities worldwide.
A Conference Focused on Innovation
Throughout the conference, delegates explored how artificial intelligence is transforming tourism and hospitality education through research, technology, and digital innovation.
Topics included AI-powered learning, smart tourism, curriculum development, digital transformation, international collaboration, and future workforce readiness.
The conference provided an inspiring environment where academics and industry professionals could exchange ideas, discuss challenges, and identify new opportunities for innovation.
Distinguished Leadership
The conference was hosted under the leadership of President Dr. Berhanemeskel Tena, whose vision for international collaboration continues to strengthen Madda Walabu University’s global partnerships.
The event was also honoured by the presence of Belete Molla Getahun, Ethiopia’s Minister of Innovation and Technology, whose participation highlighted the importance of innovation and digital transformation in higher education.
Together, university leaders, government representatives, researchers, and international partners demonstrated a shared commitment to preparing institutions for the future through collaboration and technology.
Creating Lasting Global Connections
Beyond the keynote presentations and research discussions, the conference successfully connected universities, researchers, policymakers, and organisations committed to improving education through innovation.
For LinkD, the event represented another important milestone in its mission to build stronger international partnerships and expand educational opportunities between the United Kingdom and Ethiopia.
By encouraging collaboration, supporting institutions, and connecting global expertise, LinkD continues to contribute to a more connected and innovative future for higher education.
