The Forum for Social Studies (FSS) conducted a validation workshop on Thursday, September 17, 2026, to review and discuss the findings of a study exploring Ethiopia’s Economic Reform Agenda.

The study report is the outcome of a research consultancy project implemented by FSS through its IGA wing, Trust Knowledge Enterprise, and commissioned by the Center for International Private Enterprise (CIPE).

The workshop was opened with remarks by Dr. Yeraswork Admassie, who oversaw the implementation of the project. Dr. Yeraswork, whose tenure as Executive Director is concluding, was joined by the incoming Executive Director, Professor Tegegn Gebre-Egziabher, who also attended the workshop.

In his remarks, Dr. Yeraswork highlighted FSS’s longstanding and productive relationship with CIPE, recalling its financial support for the implementation of projects of significant importance. He expressed his sincere appreciation for CIPE’s continued support and conveyed his hope that the partnership would continue and further strengthen in the future.

During the workshop, Dr. Berhanu Denu, Principal Researcher of the project, presented the study’s key findings to an audience comprising a small group of relevant stakeholders. The presentation was followed by an engaging discussion session chaired by the Project Coordinator, Dr. Kibur Engidawork.

Participants shared comments, questions, and suggestions aimed at strengthening the study’s findings and recommendations. In response to the feedback, Dr. Berhanu acknowledged the valuable contributions of the participants and noted that the comments and suggestions would be carefully considered and incorporated, where appropriate, into the final study report.

As the project progresses, three additional consultation workshops will be conducted, followed by a final dissemination workshop at which the finalized findings and recommendations will be presented.