An Assessment of Resource Generation in Public Universities of Ethiopia –in the Case of Wollaita Soddo, Bahirdar and Gondar Universities

Abstract

Data was collected through one to one interview, focus group discussion, documents analysis and site visit. A total of 60 participants with distinct characteristic (i.e., vice presidents; Directors, deans, department heads, administrative and academic staff) took part in the study. The data was analyzed thematically using directed content analysis. Findings of the study showed that the university has a weak self-steering capacity (as its autonomy and managerial capacity are compromised); moderately stimulated academic heartland; weak development periphery; strong diversified funding base and infant income generating culture. Moreover, the resource generation elements were found to be loosely coupled with each other. Additionally, the study uncovered a number of impediments (excessive procedures; low compensation; lack of real‘ space for bottom up initiatives; lack of innovative ideas; poor financial recording and management system) inhibiting resource generation practices within the institution. Lastly, a suggestion was made towards the barriers