An Investigation of the Challenges of Intercultural Communication among Jimma University Students:‟Amhara and Oromo Ethnic groups Students in Focus

Abstract

The main purpose of this study was to investigate the Challenges of Intercultural Communication among Amhara and Oromo Ethnic Groups Students at Jimma University. The study was conducted from April 2021 to October 2021. Oral information was collected from different informants such as college dean, department heads, student council, student union, subject instructors, and students. The study used a descriptive case study as a research design. The data collection methods were focus group discussions with Amhara and Oromo Ethnic Group Students and structured in-depth interviews with key informants. The research found that the Challenges for intercultural communications among the students from the two ethnic groups were language differences of the ethnic group students, cultural differences of the ethnic group students played a minimal role in creating challenges on intercultural communication, and ethnocentrism, past historical and rhetoric‟s, language socio-cultural variations. The study found that misunderstanding sometimes occurs among the ethnic group students due to their cultural competition and the political and social reality of the country. The study also found that the two ethnic groups‟ students have faced communication challenges and misunderstandings due to their wrong attitude and suspicion towards other ethnic group students. This even forced some students to change their dormitories. The study showed that this problem emanates from inflammatory historical and political narratives, activisms that catalyzed the ethnocentric ideology and led students to ethnic-based hate and conflict in the past years. Finally, the study recommended Jimma University to facilitate discussions, peace forums, and experience sharing nights, dialogue, formal education, and public lecture which enhance intercultural communication between students. Instructors have also been recommended to use inclusive language in classroom lessons, design incorporate curriculum on intercultural communication. The university has further been recommended to use mass media like JU community-oriented radio, FM 102.0. to create awareness about intercultural issues, thereby making students intercultural tolerant.