A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between Forum for Social Studies (FSS) and a professional team-PASBD, Professional Alliance for Strategic Backstopping in Development, on Monday, July 28, 2025, to collaborate on research, policy engagement, and development-related initiatives.

The agreement was signed by FSS’s Executive Director, Yeraswork Admassie (PhD), and Dr. Dereje Tekle, representing the team of professionals at the FSS Headquarters.

The idea for a partnership with FSS was first proposed by the team of professionals in recognition of FSS as a well-established policy research and dialogue platform with a proven track record in producing high-quality, contextually relevant research, facilitating inclusive public forums.

It is based on the shared interests in strengthening the research-policy practice ecosystem, promoting indigenous knowledge systems where necessary and feasible, and supporting the country’s national and regional development.

This collaboration aims to leverage these institutional strengths through strategic backstopping support and collaboration in joint projects, resource mobilization, and knowledge dissemination.

The agreement outlines the terms of their partnership, including resource allocation, joint research and policy engagement activities, and dissemination of findings.

During the event, Dr. Yeraswork expressed his gratitude for the partnership. He emphasized the importance of networking and collaboration to achieve common organizational objectives.

 “We are pleased to formalize this collaboration. As the director of this institution, I confirm that we are ready and open to embark on this joint journey.”

Dr. Dereje, on his turn, reaffirmed the group’s commitment to working closely with FSS in crucial areas such as research projects, resource mobilization, and professional capacity building.

“This MOU will enable us to collaborate in several key areas, including the sharing of resources and complementing research and other activities in several policy issues of national concern; we are focused on implementing practical, evidence-based solutions that address the Ethiopian context. Together, we will solicit, collaborate, and co-implement policy-oriented research projects and capacity building programs”, Dr. Dereje said at the signing event.