Department of Managment

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Assessment on the Practices and Challenges of Humanitarian Supply Chain Management in the case of International Rescue Committee Ethiopia (IRC)
(Mekelle University, 2020-07-25) Rigat Gebretinsae
The effectiveness of humanitarian supply chains is critical for ensuring the timely and equitable delivery of aid to populations affected by crises. This study examines the practices and challenges of supply chain management within the International Rescue Committee (IRC) Ethiopia, focusing on procurement planning, inventory utilization, warehousing, and distribution. Primary and secondary data were collected through structured interviews, observations, and reviews of organizational reports and standard operating procedures, with analysis conducted using SPSS. Key findings reveal significant issues in procurement planning, including inaccuracies in specifications, pricing, and delivery timelines, which lead to unutilized inventory and reduced supply chain efficiency. Although the IRC demonstrates strong practices in warehousing and distribution, these are often dependent on timely inputs from program teams. Additionally, while inventory utilization is generally effective, leftover stock at the end of projects highlights areas for improvement. The study recommends enhancing procurement planning processes, implementing accountability tools, optimizing inventory utilization, strengthening coordination between warehousing and program teams, increasing senior management oversight, and investing in technology to improve forecasting and inventory management. By addressing these challenges, the IRC can further enhance its supply chain efficiency, ensuring resources are used effectively to support its humanitarian mission. This research contributes to the field by offering evidence-based recommendations for improving the resilience and performance of humanitarian supply chains, particularly in resource-constrained environments like Ethiopia.
Challenges and Opportunities of Honey Market in Tigray: In the Case of Kilte Awlaelo Woreda
(Mekelle University, 2024-01-25) Yukum G/Michael Desta
The honey market in Kilte Awlaelo Woreda, Tigray, presents both significant challenges and promising opportunities for local beekeepers. This study assesses the current status of the market, identifies key barriers to its development, and explores potential avenues for growth. Employing a mixed-methods approach—including surveys, interviews, focus group discussions, and field observations—the research highlights major constraints such as a shortage of skilled labor, poor post-harvest management, inadequate extension services, and market-related issues like price instability and limited access to profitable markets. These factors hinder the productivity and economic viability of the honey sector in the region. Despite these obstacles, the study identifies substantial opportunities for market expansion. Growing demand for honey, the region’s rich biodiversity, and potential for international trade create a strong foundation for industry growth. If properly harnessed, these opportunities can transform the honey market into a more efficient and profitable sector. To address the existing challenges and maximize market potential, the study recommends targeted interventions, including capacity-building initiatives, improved infrastructure, enhanced market linkages, and stronger collaboration between stakeholders. Additionally, it emphasizes the need for further research to develop sustainable strategies that will support the long-term growth of the honey industry in Kilte Awlaelo Woreda and contribute to the broader economic development of Tigray
DETERMINANTS OF LOAN REPAYMENT PREFORMANCE OF RURAL SAVING AND CREDIT COOPERATIVE MEMBER BORROWERS IN CASE OF TSAEDA EMBA WOREDA, TIGRAY, ETHIOPIA
(Mekelle University, 2024-01-25) GEBREHAWERIA ALEMU ARAIA
Rural Savings and Credit Co-operatives (RuSACCOs) are cooperatives of financial institution that are owned and controlled by members for the purpose of encouraging members for saving and using the pooled fund to give loan to its members for their short and immediate financial need and as startup capital for small business. There are many demographic, socio-economic and institutional factors influencing loan repayment in the RuSACCOs, and other community based financial institutions. The study was aimed to identify the determinant factors for loan repayment performance of Rural Savings and Credit Co-operatives (RuSACCOs). This study was conducted with the objective of analyzing and identifying the determinant factors for loan repayment performance of rural savings and credit co-operatives (RuSACCOs). To achieve this objective, primarily data were collected from 424 randomly selected member borrowers (334 defaulters and 90 non-defaulters) by using semi-structured interview. For the data analysis, descriptive statistics including frequency, percentages and graph were used to describe the socio-economic characteristics of the member borrowers, institutional factors. Moreover, multicollinearity, correlation and chi-square analyses were employed to fulfil the assumption of binary logistic regression and compare the defaulters and non-defaulters’ group. Binary logistic regression was also, used to identify the determinant factors of loan repayment performance. The analysis found that six explanatory variables; marital status, family size, education, provision of training, follow up/supervision and model of lending become significant variables at 5% significance level. One of the assumptions of binary logistic regression was run to identify which of the independent variables significantly determine loan repayment performance. The omnibus Tests of model coefficients gives an overall indication of how well the model performs; the result obtained when none of the predictors are entered into the model. This is referred to as a „goodness of fit‟ test and indicated a highly significant value.
PROSPECTS AND CHALLENGES OF MICRO AND SMALL MANUFACTURING ENTERPRISES: THE CASE OF MEKELLE CITY
(Mekelle University, 2024-01-25) KEYRAT MOHAMMEDBIRHAN LILAY
This study was intended to investigate the challenges and prospects of the micro and small manufacturing enterprises. The purpose (reason) why the researcher intended study (investigate) the problems were in order to solve the challenges encountered and also so as to eradicate poverty by expanding & encouraging or creating so many enterprises. Note that when the researcher tries to describe the question who did what? The researcher should do (accomplish) so as to identify the problems that affect the performance of MSMES and then the government expected to fulfill the gap and then preparing a conductive loan facility, rendering suitable working place and providing market linkages and so on. Both primary and secondary sources were used in generating valuable and relevant data, 416 are taken as target population of the study & the researcher used 204 samples of the micro and small manufacturing enterprises were selected using a stratified random sampling technique, from which the required data generated and analyzed employing the descriptive research design. This study both qualitative and quantitative research (a mixed approach) that attempts to accumulate existing information. The finding reveals that the majorities of respondents have low educational status and shortage of marketing skill and information. Furthermore, uncertain nature of the market & lack of market information, shortage of working capital and collateral requirements are found as a general challenge to entrepreneurs of the MSMEs in the study area. To conclude financial, marketing and working premise constraints are major constraints. Based on the major findings some recommendations are drawn. The Mekelle city Administration official would be responsible to provide affordable alternative sources of finance by dealing with responsible bodies (banks and other credit institutions) and better to provide additional market opportunities by making linkage with public project and advertising their product and also to enhance the capacity and skill of the operators through continuous training experience sharing from successful enterprises.
Developing a Framework for Green Logistics in the Floriculture Sector: Case study- Ethiopian Horticulture Producers and Exporters Association (EHPEA)
(Mekelle University, 2024-04-25) Aida Bereket
This thesis explores the impact of European Union (EU) sustainability regulations on the adoption of green logistics practices in Ethiopia’s floriculture sector using a qualitative research approach. Ethiopia, a rapidly growing flower exporter, faces challenges complying with EU policies such as the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) and the Product Environmental Footprint Category Rules (FloriPEFCR), which require recyclable packaging and environmental impact assessments. Despite favorable growing conditions and government incentives, Ethiopian flower growers struggle with infrastructural limitations, limited awareness of sustainable logistics, and the costs of transitioning to greener practices.Through in-depth interviews and qualitative data analysis with key stakeholders in Addis Ababa’s floriculture industry, this study identifies existing logistics practices, barriers to green logistics adoption, and the influence of EU regulations on operational adjustments. The research develops a context-specific framework for green logistics that addresses transportation, packaging, warehousing, waste management, and data monitoring tailored to Ethiopia’s unique challenges and regulatory environment.The findings offer practical recommendations to improve regulatory compliance, enhance sustainability, and strengthen the competitiveness of Ethiopian flower growers in international markets. This thesis contributes to the understanding of sustainable logistics implementation in developing countries and provides a strategic guide for fostering environmentally responsible growth in Ethiopia’s floriculture sector.
EFFECT OF TOTAL QUALITY MANAGEMENT PRATICE ON PERFORMANCE OF BREWERY FACTORY (TheCASE OF DASHEN BREWERY Share Company)
(Mekelle University, 2024-11-25) NIGUSSE KELEMU
This research investigates the impact of Total Quality Management (TQM) implementation on the performance of Dashen Brewery Share Company in Ethiopia, focusing on data collected from 2015 to 2023. This is due to the reason that companies frequently assume QMS practices and ISO certification can improve organization performances. Employing a mixed-methods approach, the study integrates quantitative performance metrics with qualitative insights from management and employee interviews. Financial statements & performance reports are used as secondary data and Questioners & interview are used as primary data. Purposive sampling used to select the interviewees and respondents for the questionnaire. The collected data was analyzed using both descriptive and inferential statistics as well as tested for its significance using SPSS version 20 software. Findings reveal that key TQM practices—such as top management commitment aspect, customer focus, continuous improvement and innovation, employee involvement practices, reward and recognition, effective communication and information systems and Benchmarking—significantly influence performance metrics (p < 0.05), including product quality, operational efficiency, and employee engagement. Despite these positive outcomes, challenges persist, such as insufficient employee involvement, lack of comprehensive training, and limited resources, which hinder the effective implementation of TQM. The research contributes to the body of knowledge by providing empirical evidence of TQM's significance within the Ethiopian brewing sector, offering practical recommendations for organizations seeking to enhance performance through effective quality management strategies.
FACTORS AFFECTING THE PERFORMANCE OF WOMEN OWNED MICRO AND SMALL ENTERPRISES IN WUKRO TOWN
(Mekelle University, 2024-11-25) MICHAELE GEBREMARIAM
The study was investigated the factors affecting the performance of women owned micro and small enterprises the case of Wukro Town. .The researcher was keen on finding out an in- depth understanding of subjects on the factors affecting the performance of women owned MSEs. That’s why, the study employed mixed approach research design, thereby applying both quantitative (inferential statistics and descriptive statistics) and qualitative data. Stratified sampling and simple random sampling techniques were applied to nominate 362 the women small and micro enterprise owners. Furthermore, purposive sampling was employed to select 3 microfinance managers, five SME experts and 20 women developmental group members. Data were collected through questionnaire, focus group discussion, and interview. The collected data were, then, was tabulated with concise frequency, percentage, and mean descriptions and supported by regression analysis looking into which factor strongly affects women owned micro and small enterprises. According to the findings of the research, most women were found to be uneducated who did not have the necessary skills to run their business effectively. Moreover, the findings indicated that factors like inefficient implementation of government policies and programs, war elated factors, financial factors, technological factors, social and cultural factors were among the contributing factors that heavily affect the performance of women owned factors. In line with this, women had very limited access to loans and getting financial support. Eventually, the researcher recommended that revising existing policies to ensure they are inclusive and specifically address the challenges faced by women owned MSEs by creating targeted programs that provide financial aid, training, and resources tailored to women-owned MSEs, developing comprehensive training programs focused on entrepreneurship skills, financial literacy, and technological proficiency, creating specialized loan products with favorable terms for women owned MSEs Organize workshops aimed at enhancing financial literacy among women owned MSEs to improve their ability to manage finances and access funding, incorporating entrepreneurship education into school curricula, focusing on empowering young women with the skills and knowledge needed to start their own businesses as some of the measures to be taken so as to rehabilitate the performance of women owned MSEs.
Credit Sales Risk Management in the Case of Libya Oil Ethiopia Limited
(Mekelle University, 2024-11-28) Eyerusalem Zewge
This research deals with the Credit Sales Risk Management of Libya Oil Ethiopia Limited. The objectives of the research were to assess the management of credit sales risks in Libya Oil Ethiopia Limited. One crucial element that must be controlled is credit sales risk. Credit sales risk management is based on analyzing the creditworthiness of customers and is one of the most central risks for any company. It is caused by a debtor's failure to perform their responsibilities. The research was carried out on Libya Oil Ethiopia Ltd. One of the key elements assessing credit sales risk management is the potential for a customer to default on their payments. By evaluating the current practice, this research aims to propose potential solutions that could address this issue in credit sales risk management. A descriptive type of research method was used in conducting this study. The result of this study evidence that there is a big gap between the current company’s collection policies and procedure and current states of market computation therefore, Libya Oil Ethiopia Ltd has to revise the current policies and procedures in considering the current inflation, compotator and customer status. Trade debt has an impact on the company's performance by lowering its revenue and net income, the case thus supports the idea that the company needs strong credit sales risk management. The study’s findings indicate that setting clear credit sales, collection and receivable management is essential to effectively manage credit sales and improve the company’s performance.
Factors Influencing Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, and Learning (MEAL) Practices in International NGOs (The Case of imagine1day International Organization, Tigray, Ethiopia)
(Mekelle University, 2025-01-25) Libabie Gebaw Kahsay
Effective Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, and Learning (MEAL)are crucial for ensuringthe impact and sustainability of humanitarian and development initiatives. The purpose of this study was to assess factors influencing MEAL practices at Imagine1day International Organization in Tigray, Ethiopia focused on stakeholders’ engagement, organizational culture, technology, and financial resources. A combination of explanatory and cross-sectional research design, and mixed data approach were implemented. A total of 69 respondents encompassing 47 project staff, 15 middle-level, and 07 top-level managers were selected using census. A questionnaire via Kobo Toolbox, semi-structured interviews, and document analysis provided both quantitative and qualitative insights. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics, including the Kruskal-Wallis test, Mann-Whitney U test, and Median test, while qualitative data underwent thematic/content analysis. Correlation analysis examined relationships between key variables and accountability and learning. Findings revealed that; inadequate engagement of stakeholders in MEAL planning and designing, poor dissemination and communication of MEAL findings negatively influenced the MEAL practice. The organizational culture that has no; Board endorsed and published MEAL policy, independent MEAL organogram, MEAL-friendly management body, and trained staff negatively impacted MEAL practice. Additionally, limited technological tools, technology unfriendly staff, and inadequate IT policies hindered effective MEAL implementation. Financial constraints like absence of a clear MEAL budgeting policy and limited authority of the MEAL section over budget administration, further restricted MEAL practice. Hence, it can be concluded imagine1day’s MEAL practice remains a lot. Thus, to overcome the major factors influencing MEAL practice, recommendations have been forwarded. these includes; the endorsement of MEAL policies, the establishment of an independent MEAL structure, staff training, the adoption of MEAL-friendly technological tools, hiring of professional staff, and the development of a MEAL budgeting policy with sufficient allocation.
THE EFFECTS OF ORGANIZATIONAL CULTURE ON EMPLOYEES’ JOB SATISFACTION IN THE BANKING INDUSTRY IN THE CASE OF WEGAGEN BANK AND COMORCIAL BANK OF ETHIOPIA MEKELLE CITY ETHIOPIA, TIGRAY
(Mekelle University, 2025-02-23) ALEMU NIGUS
This study examines the effect of organizational culture on employee job satisfaction at Wegagen Bank and the Commercial Bank of Ethiopia in Mekelle City. Using descriptive and explanatory research designs, the study considers organizational culture as the independent variable and job satisfaction as the dependent variable. A mixed-methods approach was employed, primarily focusing on quantitative data from structured questionnaires distributed among 279 employees selected through stratified sampling from a total of 914 employees. The findings indicate a generally positive perception of job satisfaction, with a grand mean score of 3.88. Employees show strong commitment to their work, though concerns remain regarding long-term career satisfaction. Employee involvement (3.94) reflects teamwork and empowerment, while organizational consistency (3.89) suggests stability, though gaps exist in leadership integrity and consensus-building. Adaptability (3.88) is well-perceived, but fostering innovation remains a challenge. Mission clarity (4.10) highlights a strong sense of purpose, yet tracking progress against goals needs improvement. Inferential analysis reveals significant correlations between job satisfaction and mission, adaptability, consistency, and involvement. Regression analysis confirms that organizational culture accounts for 73.2% of job satisfaction variance, with mission clarity having the highest impact. To enhance employee job satisfuction and retention, the study recommends improving communication, leadership practices, and innovation. Additionally, implementing Enhance Communication and Inclusion, Strengthen Leadership Integrity and Consistency, Foster a Culture of Innovation and Learning, Improve Employee Retention Strategies, Reinforce Mission Clarity and Strategic Alignment and Implement Employee Motivation Strategies, employee motivation strategies such as performance-based incentives, career development programs, and work-life balance initiatives will further strengthen job satisfaction and organizational success.
Export Practices, Challenges and Opportunities (The Case of MAA Garment and Textile Factory)
(Mekelle University, 2025-02-23) DILBANTE HAILU KIDANEMARIAM
Exports play a crucial role in a country's economic growth and sustainable development. This study aimed to evaluate the export practices, challenges, and opportunities at MAA Garment and Textile Factory. A descriptive research methodology was employed, utilizing primary data collection methods. The researcher gathered information through interviews with top-level managers at the factory. A judgmental sampling technique was used to select management personnel and experts whose roles are directly related to exports. Out of 50 distributed questionnaires, 49 were returned. During the data editing process, the questionnaires were reviewed for errors, leading to the exclusion of 4 incomplete responses. Consequently, 45 valid questionnaires were used for the final analysis, which incorporated both quantitative and qualitative data analysis techniques. The analysis involved the use of tables and percentages. The findings indicated several issues: the firm poorly identifies all storage locations, there is a lack of adequate quality raw materials in the local market, the available labor force is not sufficiently skilled, employees are dissatisfied with their compensation, the customs authority is not functioning effectively, and raw materials are not supplied as expected locally. Based on these findings, the researcher recommends that the factory provide training opportunities for its employees, improve compensation for workers, ensure proper functioning of the customs authority with government oversight, and collaborate with management, government, and relevant stakeholders to resolve these challenges
THE EFFECT OF SERVICE QUALITY ON CUSTOMERS’ SATISFACTION (THE CASE OF DASHEN BANK S.C., SELECTED BRNACHES IN MEKELLE)
(Mekelle University, 2025-02-23) KIDANEMARIAM HAILU
Nowadays, firms especially, service providing firms are running their business under a stiff completion. One among the major requirements for them to beat such completion and enjoy competitive advantage is to provide quality service to their customers. Hence, the objective of this research was to examine the determinants of service quality in Dashen bank, Mekelle district as perceived from its customers. Specifically, the focus of the study was to investigate on how service quality dimensions (Tangibility, reliability, responsiveness, assurance and empathy) affect customer satisfaction in the banking sector, specifically focusing on Dashen bank’s branches in Mekelle city. The main objective is to examine the effect of the above mentioned service quality dimensions on customer satisfaction. The specific objectives included assessing the effect of each dimension and identifying major challenges faced by customers. Methodologically, the research employs a cross-sectional and explanatory survey design, using both primary data (collected via structured questionnaire) and secondary data. 200 customers were selected from five branches of Dashen bank, Mekelle district. The SEVIQUAL model is used to measure service quality. The study finds that all five service quality dimensions positively influence customer satisfaction, with assurance and reliability having the most significant impact. Lastly, it can be concluded that improving service quality in these dimensions can enhance customer satisfaction and loyalty, helping Dashen Bank maintain a competitive edge.
FACTORS AFFECTING PRICING STRATEGY DECISION IN THE AIRLINE INDUSTRY
(Mekelle University, 2025-02-23) MUHSINA MOHAMMEDBIRHAN
ASSESSMENT OF FOOD INSECURITY AND ITS DETEMNANTS IN ENDERTA DISTRICT, SOUTH EASTERN ZONE OF TIGRAY REGION, ETHIOPEA
(Mekelle University, 2025-03-25) GEBREGIORGIS WELDU KAHSAY
This study was initiated to assess the status of food insecurity and its determinants among rural households in Enderta district, south eastern zone of Tigray region, which is one of the droughtprone area. The main objective of the study was to assess the status of food insecurity and identify factors influencing food insecurity in the study area. Data for this study was obtained by crosssectional design whereby random sampling was used to select 120 respondents from the study area. Focus group discussion and key informant interview were conducted and a combination of qualitative and quantitative methods was used to collect data for this study. Descriptive statistics such as frequencies and percentages were used to obtain variability among variables. From the study, households self-report result shows that about 81.7 percent of the households were food insecure and 18.3 were food secure. Households with large family size, non-educated and old household heads were more likely to be food insecure than those with smaller family size, educated and young household heads. Similarly, factors like low land size, not livestock and not using farm input by the households, Unreliable rains, Limited use of modern technology and Poor soils were positively and significantly associated with food insecurity. Policy interventions aimed to change food security situation in the study area need to be diversified by focusing on enhancing family planning programs, promoting access to basic education to rural households and to motivate extension service providers as well as farmers to be insisted to utilize the services effectively and efficiently.
The role of Non –farming activities in sustaining rural livelihood, in the case of Enderta woreda, Tigray, Ethiopia.
(Mekelle University, 2025-05-25) Hadush Adhana
A research was conducted at five Tabias of Enderta woreda to examine and study the role of non-farm activities in sustaining the livelihood of respondents in Enderta Woreda. In order to attain the objectives of the study, primary data was collected from 191 stratified selected households using structured and unstructured questionnaires. Furthermore, key informants and focus group discussion had been used to obtain detailed information. Descriptive statistics was used to describe the livelihood resources/assets of the five Tabias of Enderta woreda, non-farm rural diversification.The survey result revealed that rural households in the study Tabias had diversified activities notably non-farm livelihood diversifications, as a result the livelihood of the rural household had been changed. It can also be concluded that most of the respondents had better knowhow on non-farm activities. However, the household heads underlined the obstacles of credit services to be revised and the government give due attention. Thus, government officials should provide relevant and necessary technical support and training to fil their gaps and create a wide adaptation on new technologies and credit services. For better validation, further research is also recommended in many other Tabias of the woreda and other nearby Woredas
DETERMINANTS OF LIVELIHOOD CHALLENGES IN CONFLICT PRONE AREA: THE CASE OF SAMRE WOREDA
(Mekelle University, 2025-06-25) Asqual Hagos
This study investigates the determinants of livelihood challenges in SamreWoreda, a conflictprone district in southeastern Tigray, Ethiopia, focusing on Lemlem-Arena, Samre-Town, and Nebar-HadnetKebeles. Conflict-prone areas face significant livelihood challenges due to violence, resource scarcity, and has led to land scarcity in rural farm households. These challenges include the destruction of physical assets, restricted access to land and resources, and the breakdown of social networks. Violent conflicts often lead to a cycle of poverty and insecurity, exacerbated by displacement and resource disputes. Households often adopt reactive coping strategies. The lack of effective governance and institutional support hinders the development of sustainable livelihood strategies. In light of the devastating impacts of armed conflict on rural communities, the study aims to understand how conflict has affected livelihoods, especially in agrarian households. A mixed-methods research design was employed, integrating both qualitative and quantitative approaches, data from 198 households, supplemented by focus group discussions (56 participants) and key informant interviews. Descriptive statistics and SPSS Version 27 were employed for data analysis. Data were collected from households, selected through purposive and simple random sampling. Primary data were gathered via household surveys, key informant interviews, and focus group discussions, and were complemented by relevant secondary sources. Data analysis was carried out using SPSS Version 27 and descriptive statistical tools. The study explores three major aspects in a logical sequence: the current situation of livelihood challenges in the area, the livelihood strategies adopted by dispossessed and resettled households, and theunderlying determinantsof these livelihood disruptions. The Findings indicate that conflict has caused widespread disruption to the agricultural economy, the primary livelihood source in the area. Nearly 97% of respondents reported substantial income losses. Determinants such as displacement, destruction of infrastructure, poor market linkages, and reduced access to agricultural inputs and extension services have further deepened the crisis. The study identifies several determinants of vulnerability, includinghousehold size, proximity to markets, availability of financial services, andgender-based disparities. Women, in particular, face compounded marginalization due to unequal access to land, credit, and protective services. Men, meanwhile, experience role dislocation and trauma. Qualitative findings further illustrate high levels of food insecurity, collapsed health and education systems, and weakened institutional support. The research highlights that mitigating livelihood challenges in conflict-affected areas like SamreWoreda requires integrated, context-sensitive, and gender-responsive interventions, and emphasize the need for asset-based recovery programs, revitalization of agriculture and extension services, enhanced market and credit accessas well asclimate-resilient practices. Furthermore, sustainable recovery must prioritize inclusive development, peacebuilding efforts, andinstitutional coordination to foster long-term resilience.
The Effect of Human Resource Development on the Performance of Selected EFFORT Companies
(Mekelle University, 2025-09-25) Asefa Gebretsadik Gebreegziabher
This study aims to examine the effect of Human Resource Development (HRD) on the Performance of selected Endowment Fund for the Rehabilitation of Tigray (EFFORT) companies, Abergele International Livestock Development (AILD), Bruhtesfa Plastic Factory (BTPF), and Trans Ethiopia (TE) in Mekelle, Tigray, Ethiopia. In spite of the HRD has recognized importance, its implementation practices, especially in large corporations such as EFFORT, have remained understudied. The study employed a mixed-methods approach, combining both quantitative and qualitative methods to collect data from AILD, BTPF, and TE. A well-structured questionnaire was used as a data collection tool, and a total of 332 employees actively participated in the study. The study assessed the current HRD practices, identified main challenges, and explored the relationship between HRD and company performance. Based on the HRD need assessment results, the weighted mean values for AILD, BTPF, and TE were 3.26, 3.83, and 3.93, respectively, which indicates that employees have recognized the importance of HRD for EFFORT companies. The weighted mean values of HRD design and implementation practices for AILD, BTPF, and TE were 1.764, 2.58, and 3.93, respectively. This showed that the design and implementation practices in AILD, BTPF, and TE were strongly dissatisfied, dissatisfied, and satisfied, respectively. Additionally, the employees at AILD and BTPF expressed their dissatisfaction with the current HRD design and delivery, career development opportunities, and financial support for training and education. This suggests that although the respondents recognized the importance of HRD for their companies, they feel HRD practices are not sufficiently aligned with staff needs. Conversely, the weighted mean values of TE employees with respect to HRD design and delivery, career development opportunities, and financial support for training and education were 3.93, 3.93, 3.77, and 3.89, respectively. This implies that the employees of TE had a more positive view of HRD practices and their influence on the performance of the company, and perceived that they are satisfied with the current HRD design and delivery, career development opportunities, and financial support for training and education. Thus, conducting HRD needs assessment, providing HRD based on identified gaps, bolstering career development initiatives, and increasing employees’ financial support for HRD and educational growth are crucial to enhance employees’ competency and the company’s productivity, which boosts the company’s competitiveness.
Assessment of Service Quality and Customer Satisfaction: (A Case Study of Mekelle Alula Aba-Nega International Airport)
(Mekelle University, 2025-09-25) Helen Berhane
Customer satisfaction has become one of the primary concerns in the aviation industry worldwide, largely due to the intense competition in the sector. Airports are striving to deliver high-quality services to retain existing passengers and attract new ones. The main objective of this research was to assess airport service quality and customer satisfaction using the SERVQUAL model, which evaluates five key dimensions: Tangibles, Reliability, Assurance, Responsiveness, and Empathy. This study focused passengers on the terminal at Mekelle Alula Aba-Nega International Airport, one of the busiest airports in Ethiopia and a key hub for domestic air travel. Primary data was collected through a questionnaire administered using a non-probability sampling technique. A total of 120 questionnaires were distributed to passengers at the airport, and 110 valid responses were obtained for analysis. The findings revealed that passenger’s high level of Expectations: Reliability, Tangibility, Assurance, Responsiveness and high level of Perception: Reliability, Assurances and Empathy consecutive with the five SERVQUAL dimensions—Reliability, Assurance, Responsiveness, and Empathy. However, they expressed dissatisfaction with the Tangibles dimension, and which includes the physical facilities, equipment, and appearance of personnel. This result serves as a warning to the Ethiopian Airports to place greater emphasis on aligning service delivery with passengers’ expectations and perceptions. To address the dissatisfaction in the Tangibles dimension, it is recommended that airport management take concrete actions such as: training terminal shop owners in customer service, enhancing Wi-Fi speed and coverage throughout the terminal, offering high-quality and affordable food options, to improve daily of passengers Baggage’s to deliver on time and revising the airport’s infrastructure to improve passenger comfort. Furthermore, it is essential for airport managers to conduct seasonal evaluations of passenger satisfaction and service quality to ensure services remain aligned with customer expectations.
ASSESSING THE IMPACT OF EARLY MARRIAGE ON GIRLS’EDUCATION IN AFAR REGIONAL STATE: THE CASE OF BERHLE WOREDA
(Mekelle University, 2025-10-25) ADLIBARAALIIBRAHIM
Early marriage significantly hinders educational opportunities for girls which increase the phenomenon of girls‟ school dropout. Hence, a descriptive and explanatory study method was adopted to examine the impact of early marriage on girls‟ education in Berahle Woreda. Mixed both (qualitative and quantitative) research approach was employed. The required primary data were gathered through survey and in-depth interview, while the supplementary secondary data were collected using document analysis. A stratified purposive and random sampling technique was implemented to select 269 primary school age girls Berhale Woreda. Binary and Multivariate logistic regression model was utilized to estimate crude and adjusted odds ratios for the dependent variables (early marriage and school dropout), while the qualitative data were analyzed thematically. Out of 269 distributed questionnaires, 248 filled questionnaires were collected by the researcher at a response rate of (92.2%). The prevalence rates of early marriage and school dropout were 75.8% and 64.5%, respectively. The odds ratio of the association between early marriage and school dropout was 0.051[0.02-0.10], signifies that school dropout is 94.9% higher among early married girls than unmarried. However, after adjusting confounding variables, the probability of school dropout was estimated to be 84.4% higher among early married girls as compared to unmarried peers [AOR= 0.152; 95% CI: 0.049- 0.473]. The empirical multivariate analysis shows that religion, wealth index and residence were found to be significant predictors for both outcomes (early marriage and school dropout) and in contrast, religion, husband/household head education, husband or head occupation, wealth index, place of residence, ethnicity, and decision to marry were significant predictors for early marriage, while early marriage, religion, place of residence and wealth index were significant predictors for school dropout. Hence, the study concluded that early marriage is the most significant factor that increases the rate of girls‟ school dropout girls. Therefore, stakeholdersand policymakers must prioritize hotspots, socio-economic, and demographic factors to achieve a meaningful reduction in the incidence of early marriage and school dropout.
CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES OF E-BANKING SYSTEM IN COMMERCIAL BANK OF ETHIOPIA (CBE MAIN DISTRICT OFFICE ) IN MEKELLE CITY
(Mekelle University, 2025-10-25) GEBREMEDHIN TAKELE
The aim of this research was to investigate the challenges and opportunities of electronic banking users in the Commercial Bank of Ethiopia in Mekelle city at the main district office. The Researcher used 180 samples of e-banking users that were conveniently found around the Commercial Bank of Ethiopia, Mekelle main district office. The researcher employed a questionnaire instrument of data collection to analyze the opinions of electronic banking users regarding the challenges and opportunities of electronic banking. The researchers findings, the opportunities and benefits were increasing habit of customers to use e-banking, governments role on by establishment of directive and guideline of e-banking like limiting cash withdrawal and commitment and expansion of ICT infrastructure, denial of unauthorized access,provision of speed and convenient service were among the main opportunities of electronic banking. and also, beyond the opportunities electronic banking play important role on customers by better provision of service at low cost,low transaction error and mistakes, provision of bank service with minimum cycle time, safe, facilitate e purchasing, satisfy customers with speed of service, updating account.in addition to the above challenges of e banking was lack of reliable power and weak internet penetration, fear of security , lacks of trust of by customer ,fraud and scamming, lack of legal frame of e-banking to resolve dispute, poor inter banking network connectivity, providing weak and suspect able password to users, outdated software application was among the challenges of e-banking. Hence, the research found the above-listed opportunities and challenges. The researcher recommends as following: Create awareness on customers that e-banking is easy to use, fast and convenient, so as to avoid the fear and worry of customers. the bank should build strong e-banking network connectivity to provide fast, reliable and convenient e-banking service to customers. Monitor and track the online-banking system to protect unauthorized access of scammers and to avoid/reduce financial fraud and update new information to customers via social media, SMS or main stream media channels to aware, Provide strong PIN and pass word to users that is not vulnerable and easily suspect able or teach to user to change their password with strong code and not to show to anyone. The bank uses blockchain security protection tools such as biometric authentication methods, facial recognition, and fraud detection to meet regulatory framework, strengthen cyber security defence, and build lasting trust with customers.