ENGDAWORK FELEKE
Academic Contributions
With over 14 years of experience as a lecturer and academic leader, I have served at three public universities in Ethiopia. My work has focused on journalism and communication education, curriculum design, research, and community engagement. This collection highlights my contributions to teaching, research, curriculum development, academic leadership, and media training.
📘Teaching Experience
Teaching and Mentorship
Over the course of 14+ years in academia, I taught a wide range of undergraduate courses in Journalism and Communication at three public universities in Ethiopia. My focus areas included Media Ethics, Communication Theories, Development Communication, and Digital Media. I also served as an academic advisor and research supervisor, mentoring students through their academic, internship, and final research projects. My teaching approach blended theory with hands-on media practice, often involving community-based learning and digital content production to prepare students for real-world challenges.
📚Research and Publications
Research Projects and Scholarly Contributions
My academic journey has been enriched by active involvement in research and scholarly work. I contributed to and led several research projects focused on media development, public communication, and community engagement. I have presented findings at academic conferences, organized research forums, and supported student research through supervision and mentorship.
In addition, I served as a journal article and research proposal reviewer, helping to ensure academic rigor across topics such as media regulation, indigenous communication practices, and public messaging. I have also prepared and edited teaching materials and published scholarly work that explores journalism’s role in conflict, development, and democratic governance. I view research as a vital tool for social change and policy influence.
🧾Curriculum & Program Development
Curriculum Design & Academic Innovation
I played a leading role in developing, reviewing, and updating Journalism and Communication curricula to meet evolving academic standards and media industry needs. At Wollo University, I established the department in 2018, adapted the national modular curriculum, and set up an educational media laboratory to enhance practical training. Similarly, at Dilla University in 2007, I co-founded the department with colleagues and jointly established an educational media lab, supporting hands-on learning in journalism.
In addition, I contributed to national curriculum reform initiatives organized by the Ministry of Education in 2008 and 2013, participating at university, cluster, and national levels. My work included course design, teaching material preparation, and the integration of digital tools into academic programs. These efforts have strengthened journalism education in Ethiopia and promoted practical, innovative, and future-focused learning environments.
🏛️Academic Leadership & Institutional Roles
Leadership and Coordination
Throughout my academic career, I held leadership roles that allowed me to shape the direction of teaching, research, and community service. As a department head and coordinator, I managed academic teams, oversaw research projects, and led outreach initiatives. I helped establish journalism student associations and supported extracurricular learning. I also served as a board member of Amhara Media Corporation and Wollo University’s Community-Based Radio, contributing to institutional media strategy and public education programs. My leadership reflects a commitment to academic excellence, collaboration, and meaningful societal engagement.
🌍 International Exposure
Global Engagement & International Representation
I was honored to participate in the Edward R. Murrow Program for Journalists – Research and Investigation, sponsored by the U.S. Department of State. This prestigious exchange brought together media professionals from around the world to explore investigative journalism practices, press freedom, and the role of media in democratic societies.
I also represented Wollo University’s Journalism Department at the 2019 World Press Freedom Day conference in Addis Ababa, co-hosted by UNESCO and the African Union. The forum focused on journalism’s impact on democratic development and freedom of expression across Africa.
🫱🏽🫲🏿Volunteering & Community Engagement
Serving Beyond the Classroom
Alongside my academic and professional roles, I have remained actively involved in community service and volunteer work that supports education, health, and institutional development. From 2019 to 2022, I served as a Board Member of Medhanialem General Primary School in Dessie, contributing to school leadership and community-based decision-making. I was also an active member of the Ethiopian Teachers Association at Wollo University and have been a lifetime member of the Family Guidance Association of Ethiopia’s Northeast Area Office, supporting youth and reproductive health programs.
Additionally, I have participated in dozens of university and community-based committees, lending my expertise to institutional planning, educational outreach, and student support. These engagements reflect my ongoing dedication to social impact and civic responsibility.
🧾 Academic Portfolio Highlights
Showcasing selected documents, course materials, project summaries, and certificates from my academic journey.
