Abstract:
Today’s waste, especially in developing nations, has increased in amount and complexity due to
economic expansion, urbanization, and population growth. Poor waste management poses serious
risks to the environment and public health, resulting in everything from sunburns to fatalities,
highlighting the need for creative waste management methods. The problems with cleanliness and
waste management are worsening as the population grows. It causes unsanitary conditions for the
local populations, which promotes the spread of infectious diseases and illnesses. To address these
challenges, this study aims to develop a framework for a knowledge management system and
formulate a knowledge transfer strategy for sustainable waste management at Jimma University
in Ethiopia. The study used a mixed-methods approach, including a literature review, interviews,
and surveys, to identify the key factors that influence knowledge management and transfer in waste
management. This study used different data sources. The primary data were gathered from Jimma
University, students at different levels, staff of environmental engineering, and environmental
health, and the general Service director of two campuses, that is the JU main campus and Jimma
Institute of Technology. The qualitative data was obtained through face-to-face interviews with
key informants. Instruments such as questionnaires, interviews, and observation were used in this
study. The data was analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistical methods, with SPSS
software version 25. The study finds that the lack of a formal knowledge management system and
a clear knowledge transfer strategy are major barriers to sustainable waste management at Jimma
Universities. The study proposed a framework for a knowledge management system that includes
knowledge creation, storage, sharing, and application. The study also formulated a knowledge
transfer strategy that provides training, mentoring, and knowledge exchange programs. The
proposed framework and knowledge transfer strategy could help Jimma University improve its
waste management practices, reduce waste generation, and promote sustainability. The findings
of the study show that the knowledge management system has a positive impact and significant (at
p-value=0.001 and .000) on sustainable waste management. The researcher recommended that
the university management should emphasize knowledge management systems and knowledge
transfer strategies to be effective and to have better sustainable waste management.
