For Prof. Abba Hailegebriel Girma, academic leadership has always been closely connected with a commitment to continuous learning and professional development. As Vice President for Academic Affairs and Professor at Holy Trinity University in Ethiopia, his work spans from higher education leadership, teaching, research, and community engagement.
Recognising the value of expanding his academic perspective, Professor Girma pursued the Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.) at European International University (EIU–Paris), adding psychology to an academic foundation that already included doctoral qualifications in education and related fields. Completing the programme marked another important milestone in his ongoing commitment to scholarship and lifelong learning.
Integrating Psychology with Education and Leadership
Rather than viewing psychology as a standalone discipline, Professor Girma approached the programme as an opportunity to strengthen the connections between psychology, education, theology, leadership, and research.
While continuing his responsibilities at Holy Trinity University, EIU’s flexible, globally oriented learning environment enabled him to deepen his understanding of psychology, counselling, educational leadership, research methodology, and evidence-based practice. These experiences further strengthened his ability to integrate psychological perspectives into higher education leadership, teaching, research, pastoral care, and community service.
His academic work reflects a strong commitment to interdisciplinary scholarship, recognising that meaningful education is enriched when knowledge from different disciplines is brought together to support both individual development and institutional excellence.
Reflecting on the EIU Experience
Reflecting on his experience at EIU–Paris, Professor Girma shares:
“Completing my Doctor of Psychology at EIU significantly enriched my professional and academic journey by strengthening my leadership and interdisciplinary perspectives in psychology, education, and theology. I am grateful for EIU’s flexible, globally oriented learning environment, which continues to support my work in higher education, research, and community service.”
For experienced academic leaders, professional development often extends beyond acquiring additional qualifications. It also provides opportunities to broaden perspectives, deepen interdisciplinary understanding, and strengthen the impact of leadership, teaching, and research within their institutions and communities.
Continuing a Commitment to Scholarship and Service
Alongside his academic leadership responsibilities, Professor Girma continues to contribute to higher education through teaching, research, and community service. His interests span psychology, counselling, educational leadership, pedagogy, research methodology, and Orthodox theology, reflecting a commitment to holistic approaches to education and human development.
His professional journey illustrates that lifelong learning remains an important part of academic leadership. By continuing to expand knowledge across disciplines while serving in senior leadership, Professor Girma demonstrates how ongoing scholarship can contribute to stronger institutions, meaningful research, and lasting service to society.
𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗰𝘁:
📩 [email protected]
📞WhatsApp: +33607591197
🌐 https://eiu.ac/lead_form/
𝗦𝗼𝗺𝗲 𝗨𝘀𝗲𝗳𝘂𝗹 𝗣𝗮𝗴𝗲𝘀:
📑 Journals Library https://journals.eiu.ac/
✍️ EIU-Paris Blogs https://blog.eiu.ac
🎓 Merchandise https://shop.eiu.ac/
📔 Magazine https://blog.eiu.ac/eiu-magazine/