Ethiopia Institute of Technology- Mekelle

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    Word Sequence Prediction Model for the Tigrigna Language Using a Deep Learning Approach
    (Mekelle University, 2026-01-22) Yibralem Hagos Mekonnen
    This research explores the development of a word sequence prediction model for the Tigrigna language using deep learning techniques, specifically Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) and Gated Recurrent Units (GRU). Tigrigna, primarily spoken in Eritrea and Ethiopia, faces significant challenges in natural language processing (NLP) due to the scarcity of comprehensive computational resources and annotated corpora. This study addresses the urgent need for effective NLP tools tailored to Tigrigna, focusing on the fundamental task of word sequence prediction, which underpins various applications such as machine translation and text generation. Despite the limited dataset of 10,000 sentences compiled from diverse sources, the models were evaluated for their ability to predict and generate coherent word sequences. Results indicate that while LSTM and GRU models demonstrated potential in capturing Tigrigna’s unique linguistic characteristics, they faced issues with overfitting and underfitting, particularly influenced by the choice of embeddings Word2Vec and Keras Embedding. The findings highlight the necessity for improved regularization techniques and the importance of data augmentation to enhance model generalization. This research contributes to the nascent field of Tigrigna NLP by demonstrating the applicability of deep learning models in resource-scarce languages. The outcomes suggest pathways for future advancements in Tigrigna language technology, emphasizing the potential for enhanced predictive text applications and deeper insights into Tigrigna's grammatical structures. Ultimately, this work lays a foundation for further developments in Tigrigna NLP, advocating for increased investment in linguistic resources and innovative modeling techniques to support the digital representation of the Tigrigna language.
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    DEVELOPMENT OF A TEXT-BASED, AMHARIC-LANGUAGE CHATBOT FOR MATERNAL HEALTH CONSULTATION USING SUPERVISED MACHINE LEARNING
    (Mekelle University, 2026-01-26) BIRTUKAN NGATU
    Maternal health continues to be a critical concern in Ethiopia, where language barriers and limited access to healthcare information contribute to high rates of preventable pregnancy complications. Motivated by the need to improve maternal outcomes through accessible and culturally appropriate solutions, this study introduces an Amharic-based pregnancy chatbot. The chatbot is designed to provide expecting mothers with personalized, trustworthy, and timely maternal health guidance throughout their pregnancy journey. Using natural language processing (NLP), the chatbot interacts with users in Amharic, addressing common concerns and delivering information on prenatal care, nutrition, warning signs, emotional well-being, childbirth, and postpartum care. The methodology involves integrating the chatbot with local health resources and deploying it via mobile platforms to ensure 24/7 conversational support. The developed chatbot achieved approximately 100% training accuracy and 75% test accuracy in intent classification using an ensemble model averaging approach. Beyond technical validation, this study establishes a comprehensive theoretical framework grounded in the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) and Nielsen's Usability Heuristics to evaluate usability, acceptance, and user satisfaction. This framework addresses the critical gap between technical functionality and real-world adoption, providing a methodological foundation for future empirical validation with target users in Ethiopia's maternal healthcare context.
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    AUTOMATED SELENIUM TESTING FOR THE QUALITY ASSURANCE OF MEKELLE UNIVERSITY WEB SITE
    (Mekelle University, 2026-01-28) Berihu Gidey Gebremeskel
    Websites serve as critical platforms for administrative, academic, and communication functions in higher education institutions. However, many institutional websites in Ethiopia, including that of Mekelle University, face persistent challenges such as outdated content, inconsistent navigation, broken links, and poor mobile responsiveness. Manual quality assurance is labor intensive, error prone, and insufficient to ensure consistent performance across diverse devices and user interactions. To address these limitations, this study develops an automated testing framework using Python and Selenium WebDriver to systematically evaluate the functionality, usability, responsiveness, and content accuracy of the Mekelle University website. The design and execution of nine test cases (TC001–TC009) addressed navigation, form validation, authentication, content verification, responsive design, homepage content verification, and link validation. The results show that the navigational components (TC001–TC003) are generally reliable and offer consistent access to the main sections of the website. However, the failure of form validation testing (TC004) revealed a significant flaw in data entry operations. This failure resulted from a combination of automation-related problems, such as uneven HTML structure and unstable element locators, and website-side issues, such as missing elements and unresponsive buttons. This mixed outcome demonstrates that while Selenium works effectively with well-structured underlying web components, interacting with poorly developed or dynamically loaded form elements reduces its ease of use. Content verification (TC006) exposed discrepancies in page titles and footer components, while authentication testing (TC005) confirmed that the website currently lacks a login feature for authenticated access. Homepage content verification (TC008) further identified accessibility issues, particularly the absence of a working mobile navigation menu. Responsive design testing (TC007) showed generally acceptable behavior across devices, and link validation testing (TC009) revealed that 5 out of 53 hyperlinks failed (9.4%), indicating broken links that undermine reliability and user trust. Overall, the study demonstrates that Selenium-based automated testing is effective in detecting usability issues, content inconsistencies, and functional flaws across large portions of the website. At the same time, the mixed results from TC004 highlight an important limitation: Selenium’s accuracy and ease of use depend heavily on the quality and consistency of a website’s underlying HTML structure. Thus, the findings emphasize both the value of automated testing and the need for improved web development standards and continuous quality assurance practices to enhance the reliability, accessibility, and overall user experience of Ethiopian higher education websites.
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    Integrating Ethereum Blockchain and GraphQL for a Secure Graduate Verification System at Mekelle University
    (Mekelle University, 2026-01-28) Tilahun Mamuye Gidey
    Ensuring the integrity and efficiency of academic record verification has become increasingly important for modern educational institutions. This study presents a blockchain-powered verification system specifically designed for confirming the credentials of graduated students from Mekelle University. By integrating Ethereum blockchain with GraphQL APIs, the system enhances transparency and reliability in the verification process. The university’s existing system, built with Ruby on Rails, lacked automated verification, relied heavily on centralized control, and was prone to delays and potential data tampering. To overcome these issues, a decentralized application (DApp) was developed using various tools, including Ethers.js, Node.js, Ganache, Apollo Server, GraphQL, and React. This application enables the secure submission and retrieval of student records through Ethereum smart contracts. Data can be uploaded via CSV files or manually entered through forms, and each record is retrievable using a unique student ID, ensuring data immutability and public verifiability. Stakeholder feedback was gathered through interviews, and thematic analysis was used to assess the system’s usability, scalability, and trustworthiness. Findings showed strong support for the blockchain-based system, with over 90% of participants agreeing that it improves transparency and reduces the risk of credential fraud. This research demonstrates a feasible bridge between traditional university information systems and decentralized technologies, highlighting both the practicality and institutional readiness for adopting blockchain in higher education.
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    The Construction Management of High Voltage Transmission Lines
    (Mekelle University, 2026-01-10) Wang Ning
    This study examines the construction management performance of three high-voltage (HV) transmission line projects in Ethiopia—Azezo-Chilga, Fincha II-Shambu, and Metu-Masha 230 kV lines—which are vital for strengthening grid reliability and supporting national electrification goals. Managing these projects presents significant challenges due to complex technical requirements, difficult terrain, logistical constraints, and extensive coordination needs across civil, electrical, and administrative teams. The research aims to evaluate construction management practices, identify the most pressing challenges, and propose evidence-based strategies to improve project efficiency, quality, and safety. A descriptive and exploratory research design was used. Data were collected from 18 key informants (project managers, engineers, site supervisors) and 42 project documents, including contracts, design drawings, test reports, and progress records. The analysis focused on three core dimensions—planning and survey, material and quality management, and execution and commissioning. The findings reveal that planning and survey effectiveness averaged 82%, supported by accurate route selection and reduced rework. Material and quality management performance averaged 76%, though procurement delays and logistics constraints affected tower delivery and conductor stringing schedules. Execution and commissioning achieved 84% performance, driven by strong supervision, safety compliance, and coordinated team workflows. Key challenges included logistical delays (reported in 67% of sites), terrain-related access problems (52%), and coordination gaps among stakeholders (48%). These were mitigated through proactive planning, improved contractor–client communication, and adaptive risk management strategies. Overall, the study concludes that integrated and data-driven construction management significantly improves schedule adherence, cost efficiency, and technical quality in HV transmission line projects. The findings offer practical guidance for policymakers, engineers, and project managers seeking to enhance performance, reliability, and long-term sustainability in Ethiopia’s power transmission infrastructure
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    Challenges and Coping Strategies in Fire Protection Acceptance for Super High-Rise Projects: A Case Study of the Commercial Bank of Ethiopia Headquarters Building Project
    (Mekelle University, 2026-01-10) Wang Ximan
    This study examines the challenges and coping strategies in achieving fire protection acceptance for super high-rise buildings (200 meters and above) through a case study of the Commercial Bank of Ethiopia (CBE) Headquarters project in Addis Ababa. An embedded single-case study design was employed, utilizing mixed methods to investigate the critical barriers affecting compliance in international contexts. Primary data were collected from 18 key stakeholders, through semi-structured interviews, complemented by project document analysis. Data triangulation was conducted to address three objectives: identify systemic barriers in cross-border fire safety compliance; evaluate the effectiveness of coping strategies implemented in the CBE project; and develop a standardized framework to improve inspection outcomes in overseas super high-rise projects. The findings indicate that regulatory misalignment between international standards, specifically the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), and evolving Ethiopian standards accounted for 68% of approval delays. Additionally, technical conflicts contributed to an average critical path delay of 8.2 months, highlighting the complexities of coordinating fire safety compliance across multiple stakeholder groups and jurisdictions. This study contributes to institutional and stakeholder theory by demonstrating how isomorphic pressures influence acceptance outcomes in complex construction projects. Practically, it proposes an integrated framework comprising a decision matrix, a standardized checklist, and a coordination model. Retrospective application of this framework to the CBE project suggests potential reductions in approval timelines by 30–40% and cost savings of $5–8 million per project. These findings offer actionable guidance for practitioners, regulators, and policymakers seeking to improve fire protection compliance efficiency and risk management in super high-rise developments, particularly in emerging economies.
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    Assessment of Employee Localization Practice in Foreign- Contracted Road Projects in Ethiopia: A Case Study of the Hamusit – Estie Asphalt Road Project
    (Mekelle University, 2026-01-10) Yan Dan
    This study assesses employee localization practices in Foreign-contracted road projects in Ethiopia, with a focus on the Hamusit–Estie Asphalt Road Project. Localization the gradual substitution of expatriate staff with competent local professionals is widely recognized as apathway toward sustainable infrastructure development, cost efficiency, and knowledge transfer. Although foreign contractors in Ethiopia employ a large proportion of local workers, especially in operational and support roles, managerial and senior technical positions remain largely Expatriate-held. Recent restrictions on work permits and identification cards have compelled contractors to hire more local employees; however, deeper functional localization remains constrained. Data collected through questionnaires and interviews with local staff, expatriates, and HR managers reveal that language barriers, differing management systems, loyalty and trust concerns, cultural gaps, and limited technical experience are the key obstacles preventing Ethiopians from assuming higher-responsibility positions. The study further identifies that overreliance on expatriates increases project costs through higher remuneration packages and weakens efficiency due to communication and coordination challenges. While Ethiopia’s government promotes localization, enforcement mechanisms are insufficient, and implementation varies widely among contractors. Findings emphasize that numerical localization alone does not guarantee capability transfer. Achieving meaningful progress requires structured training programs, bilingual communication systems, transparent promotion pathways, and stronger policy enforcement that aligns incentives for both contractors and local professionals. The study concludes that under Ethiopia’s current context, a phased and collaborative localization strategy balancing immediate operational realities with long-term capacity building is the most practical route toward sustainable and inclusive project delivery.
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    Health and Safety Risk Management practices in Case of Daye–Chiri–Nansebo Road Construction Project
    (Mekelle University, 2026-01-10) Yang Bin
    The construction industry is widely recognized as one of the most hazardous sectors due to the dynamic nature of construction activities and frequent exposure to occupational risks. In Ethiopia, road construction projects are characterized by complex operations involving heavy machinery, traffic interaction, and challenging environmental conditions, which increase the likelihood of accidents and injuries. Despite the existence of safety regulations, health and safety risk management practices remain inadequate in many construction projects. This study assesses health and safety risk management practices in road construction projects in Ethiopia, using the Daye–Chiri–Nansebo road construction project as a case study. A descriptive research design was adopted, and both quantitative and qualitative data were collected through questionnaires, interviews, and site observations. Data were analyzed using the Relative Importance Index (RII) method with the support of SPSS software to identify and rank major health and safety risk factors. The findings indicate that insufficient management commitment, inadequate safety training, poor hazard identification, and limited enforcement of safety regulations are the most significant factors affecting health and safety performance. The study concludes that strengthening safety management systems, improving worker training, and enhancing regulatory enforcement are essential to reducing occupational risks in road construction projects. The results of this study provide practical insights for contractors, consultants, and regulatory bodies seeking to improve health and safety performance in the Ethiopian construction sector.
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    Integrated Engineering Material Management System for Chinese-Funded Infrastructure Projects in Ethiopia: A Study on Procurement, Logistic Warehousing and Lifecycle Optimization
    (Mekelle University, 2026-01-05) Zhang Kaiyuan
    Chinese-funded infrastructure projects in Ethiopia have significantly contributed to national development but often face critical inefficiencies in engineering material management. This study examines procurement, logistics, warehousing, and material lifecycle management practices in selected Chinese-funded energy and transport projects. Using a mixed-methods approach, primary data were collected through structured questionnaires and semi-structured interviews with project managers, procurement officers, warehouse supervisors, and logistics personnel, while secondary data were obtained from project documents and reports. Findings reveal fragmented procurement processes, inadequate logistics coordination, limited warehouse capacity, manual inventory systems, and poorly integrated material lifecycle management. These challenges result in material shortages, delays, cost overruns, and resource wastage. The study highlights the lack of standardized digital tracking systems and insufficient capacity building for local stakeholders as key contributors to inefficiency. Based on these findings, the research proposes a unified procurement planning system, automated warehouse management, digital lifecycle tracking, enhanced logistics coordination, capacity building, regulatory harmonization, and sustainable material management practices. Implementing these recommendations is expected to improve material flow efficiency, reduce project costs, and promote sustainability in Chinese-funded infrastructure projects in Ethiopia. Integrated Engineering Material Management System for Chinese-Funded
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    Business and Legal Measures for Managing Defects in Contractor Contracts: A Case Study Approach to Public Building Construction Practices in Ethiopia
    (Mekelle University, 2026-01-10) Zhang Lifeng
    This study critically examines the business and legal measures for managing construction defects in public building projects in Ethiopia, using the Supreme Court building project as a case study. Despite the prevalence of defects, limited research has investigated the effectiveness of contractual, legal, and financial mechanisms in addressing these challenges. The study surveyed 15 key stakeholders, including project managers, contractors, subcontractors, legal experts, and client representatives. Findings indicate that construction defects are widespread, primarily caused by poor workmanship, inadequate supervision, design flaws, low-quality materials, and contractor negligence. Both patent (visible) and latent (hidden) defects are common, highlighting persistent quality management issues. While contractual tools such as Defects Liability Periods (DLPs) and retention payments are frequently included, their effectiveness is constrained by weak enforcement and unclear liability allocation. Legal remedies, including damages and indemnities, face procedural delays that reduce their practical impact. Dispute resolution predominantly relies on litigation, although stakeholder preferences are increasingly shifting toward faster, collaborative approaches such as mediation and adjudication. The study concludes that improving defect management requires an integrated approach combining clear contractual frameworks, strengthened enforcement mechanisms, alternative dispute resolution, financial risk instruments, and capacity building for stakeholders. Implementing these measures is expected to enhance contractor accountability, reduce disputes, and improve the quality and sustainability of Ethiopia’s public building projects.