From Classroom to Real World: My Internship Experience at Shenen Dugo Finance and Economic Cooperation
By gadisa
Introduction
From Classroom to Real During my time as an economics student at Oda Bultum University, I had the incredible opportunity to complete a practical attachment at the Shenen Dugo Woreda Finance and Economic Development Office. This experience allowed me to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world application, providing invaluable insights into the challenges and operations of a government financial office in Ethiopia.
About the Organization
Located in West Hararge Zone, Shenen Dugo Finance and Economic Cooperation Office plays a pivotal role in revenue collection, budget planning, and economic development for the region. Established in 1994, the office strives to improve the living standards of the community through transparent resource management and sustainable planning.
Key Functions:
- Revenue collection and tax administration.
- Budget planning and economic policy implementation.
- Procurement and purchasing of materials for public sectors.
- Monitoring and auditing financial activities.
Core Values:
- Transparency – Ensuring accountability in financial operations.
- Gender Equality – Promoting equal opportunities for all employees.
- Efficiency – Optimizing resource use for maximum impact.
My Role in the Purchasing Department
As an intern in the purchasing department, I was involved in several key activities:
- Bidding Documentation – Assisted in preparing and organizing bidding documents for suppliers.
- Market Surveys – Helped evaluate market prices to ensure cost-effective purchases.
- Needs Assessment – Collected and analyzed requests from different sectors to determine procurement priorities.
- Supplier Coordination – Engaged with vendors to ensure timely and quality deliveries.
This hands-on experience taught me the complexities of public procurement, from legal compliance to negotiation strategies.
Challenges Observed
While the organization is dedicated to its mission, several challenges hinder its efficiency:
- Limited Resources – Shortage of computers and office materials slows down operations.
- Manual Processes – Heavy reliance on paper-based systems leads to delays.
- Budget Constraints – Insufficient funding affects service delivery.
- Skill Gaps – Some employees lack advanced training in financial management.
Lessons Learned & Takeaways
- Theory vs. Practice – Classroom concepts like procurement policies and budgeting came to life, but real-world execution involves unexpected hurdles.
- Teamwork Matters – Collaboration between departments is crucial for smooth operations.
- Adaptability – Working in a resource-limited environment taught me creative problem-solving.
Recommendations for Improvement
To enhance efficiency, the organization could:
✅ Digitize operations – Implement software for procurement and record-keeping.
✅ Invest in training – Upskill employees in modern financial tools.
✅ Increase budget allocation – Ensure adequate resources for critical functions.
Final Thoughts
This internship was more than just a requirement—it was a transformative experience that shaped my understanding of public finance. I’m grateful to my supervisors, colleagues, and Oda Bultum University for this opportunity. For students, I highly recommend seeking practical attachments—they’re the best way to prepare for the professional world!
Have questions about my experience? Drop a comment below!
#InternshipDiaries #EconomicsInAction #PublicFinance #EthiopiaDevelopment
(Note: This blog post is based on my original internship report. Names and details are used with permission.)
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