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Participatory Forestry Management in Ethiopia

Worldwide, forests are under pressure. They are crucial not only for their biodiversity, but also for people's lives and livelihoods. Many are converted to other uses such as agriculture, considered more economically lucrative than maintenance of the forests. In Ethiopia, 75% of its forests have been lost in recent decades.

is part of a project that aims to help combat such loss. The project, which involves the ºÚÁÏÉç working in collaboration with NGOs, government departments, and local businesses, focuses on participatory forest management (PFM), widely recognised as a viable mechanism to help maintain the natural environment and improve livelihoods. PFM devolves responsibility for forest management away from central government and down to the communities that live in and around the forests.

The project has had significant impact. Firstly, through this project the ºÚÁÏÉç and its partners have highlighted that sustainable management of natural resources can be achieved if appropriate PFM, community-based enterprises, policies and economic incentives are in place. Second, in Ethiopia 150,000 ha of degrading forest has been brought under the management of 30,000 village community members and six marketing cooperatives have helped improve the livelihoods of participating communities, generating higher levels of income through sustainable value chain development for wild coffee and forest friendly honey. Ultimately, the aim is to demonstrate the economic viability of good forest conservation and how this can generate both social and economic value for local stakeholders.

The project has also contributed to theory building in this area by generating academic publications in high-quality journals on for social good and the .

Omorinsola George, 2026 Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) Graduate  

Research title: Assessment of Gender Based Income Inequality: Exploring the Employment Gender Divide in the Outsourcing Service Sector in Nigeria.  

I chose to study in the UK because I had previously completed my MSc here, which gave me a strong understanding of the British education system and the opportunities available through postgraduate study.  

When researching universities, the ºÚÁÏÉç stood out because of its clear commitment to student success. The wealth of support available to students was evident from the information provided on the University website, and I was attracted by the welcoming and supportive environment. I also appreciated the campus itself, which offers a calm and peaceful setting that fosters ease of learning. The Doctorate in Business Administration (DBA) was particularly appealing because it provides valuable opportunities for professional development and supports my ambition to progress into senior industry roles.  

As an international student, my experience has been academically enriching and eye-opening. I have benefited from conferences, postgraduate researcher training opportunities, and a range of internal and external development activities that have enhanced my research skills and broadened my perspective.  

My advice to other international students coming to ºÚÁÏÉç is not to be afraid to reach out for support. If you're facing a challenge, share it with someone you trust - there are people ready to help, whether that's members of staff or fellow students. You are never alone, and there is a strong support network available to help you succeed.