From Classroom to Cultivation: Enhancing Practical Skills on Mushroom Production: A Case from Fourth-Year Biotechnology Students at Mekelle University”

Agricultural biotechnology education in Ethiopia faces a persistent gap between theoretical instruction and practical application, particularly in mushroom production. This action research project at Mekelle University engaged all eight fourth-year biotechnology students in a structured intervention designed to strengthen hands-on skills and confidence. Using surveys, classroom and field observations, and document analysis, the study identified key challenges including limited practical training, curriculum overload, and inadequate assessment of applied competencies. Interventions were implemented in three phases: restructuring practical sessions to prioritize experiential learning, enhancing resources through guidelines and field visits, and reforming assessment methods to emphasize competency-based evaluation. Post-intervention results demonstrated significant improvements in student satisfaction, confidence, and engagement, with practical assessments gaining greater weight in overall course evaluation. The findings highlight the importance of integrating experiential methodologies into biotechnology curricula to better prepare graduates for industry demands and contribute to Ethiopia’s agricultural development. Recommendations include formal curriculum revision, establishment of permanent training facilities, and sustained industry collaboration to ensure long-term impact.