On July 31st, the Ethiopian Kickoff meeting of the "SATREPS-EARTH Project", which is a part of the international joint research with Ethiopia with Soka University, was held at Dangila Gashuna Hotel.

SATREPS (Science and Technology Research Partnership for Sustainable Development) is a Japanese government program that promotes international joint research. The program aims at improving science and technology in developing countries, and at addressing global issues, funded by Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST) and Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). EARTH (Eco-engineering for Agricultural Revitalization towards Improvement of Human Nutrition) is the theme of this project. SATREPS-EARTH Project officially started activities in Ethiopia and Japan on July 1st.

25 researchers from the Ethiopian participating institutions such as Bahir Dar University (BDU), Injibara University, and Lake Tana and Other Water bodies Protection and Development Agency participated in this meeting and had a productive discussion. Following the introduction of the project overview and participating researchers by the Project Manager, Associate Professor Solomon Addisu from BDU, four theme leaders reported the research progress of each theme activity. Then, the active discussion was conducted by each theme. It was an important kickoff meeting to enhance the unity among Ethiopian researchers. Finally, Dr. Solomon wrapped up the whole day discussions, put way forward to have regular meetings among Ethiopian and Japanese researchers, the budget principles and research facilities, and also reminded them to strengthen communication and commitment to implement the research activities for making project goal successful.