Graphic Design Short Term Training Program

Ethiopian Institute of Textile and Fashion Technology (EiTEX)
Bahir Dar University
Duration: Three Months (240 Hours)
Commencement Date: June 2025
Certificate: Certificate of Graphic Design Short Term Training
Medium of Instruction: English
Tuition Fee: 6,000 ETB (2,000 ETB per month)

1. Introduction

The Graphic Design Short-Term Training program is a professionally structured course developed by the Ethiopian Institute of Textile and Fashion Technology (EiTEX) at Bahir Dar University. The training aims to produce skilled and creative professionals capable of addressing the growing visual communication needs of Ethiopia’s emerging creative and media industries. This program integrates theoretical concepts with intensive practical training to ensure participants gain real-world design experience.

The course focuses on the development of creativity, digital literacy, and entrepreneurial thinking. It provides learners with hands-on experience using industry-standard tools and platforms, particularly Adobe Creative Suite applications such as Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign. By the end of the program, participants are expected to design professional-grade visual materials for both print and digital media.

2. Rationale

As digital media becomes central to communication, marketing, and business identity, the demand for qualified graphic designers has grown significantly. Ethiopia’s creative sector is expanding rapidly, yet there remains a shortage of formally trained professionals who can meet the standards of modern design industries. This training program responds to that need by offering a short, intensive, and skill-oriented curriculum that empowers participants to enter the job market or start their own creative ventures.

The program aligns with Ethiopia’s national development goals, particularly the Growth and Transformation Plan, which prioritizes job creation, industrial innovation, and the empowerment of youth and women. By equipping participants with tangible design skills, the program contributes directly to national efforts in promoting entrepreneurship, employment, and the creative economy.

3. Objectives

The main objective is to produce skilled graphic designers who are competent in both creative and technical aspects of design.

Specific objectives include:

¨ To provide a solid foundation in design principles, color theory, and typography.

¨ To develop proficiency in digital tools and design software.

¨  To foster creativity and design thinking skills for real-world projects.

¨ To enable trainees to create a professional design portfolio.

¨ To build entrepreneurial capabilities for self-employment opportunities in the creative industry.

4. Core Modules and Curriculum Overview

The Graphic Design Short Term Training program is organized into six key modules that combine conceptual learning with practical exercises. Each module contributes to the development of a complete designer, capable of producing professional visual works and understanding the principles of branding and communication.

1. Introduction to Graphic Design – Fundamentals of design, typography, and layout principles.

2. Basic Computer Graphics – Use of digital tools, image manipulation, and software fundamentals.

3. Color Theory – Understanding color relationships, harmony, and psychological impact.

4. Graphic Design I – Intensive Photoshop and Illustrator practice on real-world projects.

5. Senior Project – Comprehensive design projects including logos, posters, and brand identity creation.
6. Entrepreneurship – Basics of business management and creative startup development.

5. Delivery Methodology

The program follows a competency-based training approach, focusing primarily on practical performance. Approximately 90% of the total training hours are dedicated to hands-on activities, while 10% cover theoretical concepts. Training is delivered through classroom sessions, workshops, individual and group projects, and supervised lab work. Emphasis is placed on design projects that simulate industry environments, allowing learners to build confidence and experience.

6. Entry Criteria and Duration

The training is open to all individuals interested in developing design skills. Candidates must meet the following requirements:

¨Educational level: Minimum of Grade 8 completed.

¨Age: 16 years and above.

¨Prior experience: Not required.

¨Class size: Maximum of 25 trainees per batch.

¨Attendance: Minimum of 80% required to qualify for certification.

Total duration: Three months (240 hours), including both classroom and practical sessions. Training hours are distributed across theory, workshops, and project-based learning.

7. Expected Outcomes

Upon successful completion of the program, participants will demonstrate the ability to:

¨Apply design principles and color theory in creative projects.

¨Use Adobe Creative Suite efficiently for professional design work.

¨  Create visual assets such as logos, posters, brochures, and social media graphics.

¨Develop a professional portfolio showcasing individual talent.

¨  Communicate design ideas clearly and effectively in presentations.

¨  Explore employment and self-employment opportunities in the creative industry.

8. Assessment and Certification

Trainees are continuously evaluated through formative and summative assessments. Evaluation components include classroom participation, assignments, practical projects, and final design submissions. The grading structure consists of 30% formative assessment and 70% summative project evaluation. Learners who meet all requirements receive a Certificate of Graphic Design Short Term Training from Bahir Dar University (EiTEX).

9. Trainers’ Qualification and Trainee Conduct

Trainers must possess at least a Bachelor’s degree in Graphic Design or related fields and a minimum of three years of professional experience. They are responsible for guiding trainees through both technical and conceptual learning stages.

Trainees are expected to maintain discipline, punctuality, and active participation. They must respect institutional rules, use resources responsibly, and complete all assigned tasks on time. Ethical behavior and teamwork are strongly emphasized throughout the training.

10. Unique Value and Community Impact

This program plays a crucial role in bridging the gap between education and industry. It provides practical pathways for youth, women, and job seekers to acquire valuable creative skills that lead to employment and entrepreneurship. Graduates contribute to the development of Ethiopia’s creative economy by offering services in branding, advertising, and digital media.

The program not only strengthens the visual communication capacity of industries but also encourages innovation, collaboration, and self-reliance among participants. It supports the government’s broader objective of sustainable job creation and skill development.

11. Conclusion

The Graphic Design Short Term Training program at EiTEX, Bahir Dar University, stands as a strategic initiative to build a new generation of creative professionals in Ethiopia. Through its intensive, practice-oriented curriculum, it ensures that graduates are well-prepared to enter the workforce, launch their own creative businesses, and contribute to national development through design and innovation.