Mint Intern
Mint Intern
INTERNSHIP REPORT
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Executive Summary
Our internship program at the Ministry of Innovation and Technology in the Federal
Democratic Republic of Ethiopia (FDRE) focused on developing a comprehensive
travel and tourism website to promote Ethiopia’s rich cultural heritage, natural beauty,
and historical landmarks.through practical software development experience. Our
primary objective was to improve the existing travel and tourism website by making
it more user-friendly, informative, and high-performing. Throughout the internship,
we conducted a thorough analysis of the existing website to identify areas for
improvement. By implementing design enhancements and optimizing content, we
aimed to create a more engaging and accessible online experience for users. This
project not only allowed us to apply our technical skills in a real-world context but
also contributed to promoting Ethiopia as an attractive travel destination.
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Acknowledgement
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who contributed to the success of our
internship program at the Ministry of Innovation and Technology of Ethiopia. We are
thankful to God for the opportunity to participate in this program and for His guidance
throughout our journey.
We also express our appreciation to Adama Science and Technology University for
allowing us to be part of this program. Their support and guidance were crucial to our
growth and the development of our technical skills.
Our sincere thanks go to our dedicated supervisors at the Ministry of Innovation and
Technology, particularly Mr. Denber. Their unwavering support, mentorship, and
expertise were invaluable and played a significant role in our success during the
internship.
We are also grateful to all the staff members at the Ministry of Innovation and
Technology who provided us with insights, feedback, and support. Working alongside
such a talented and dedicated team was a privilege, and their contributions were
essential to our development.
We must acknowledge the remarkable collaboration among our team members. Their
dedication and commitment to excellence were vital to the success of our project.
Working with such motivated and talented individuals was a truly rewarding
experience
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List of Acronyms
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Chapter One
INTRODUCTION
1.1.1 Overview
The main objective in this internship is gain practical experience and develop skills in
web development, contributing to the company projects while learning and growing in
professional skill
Develop professio1nal practice and adherence to codes of professional ethics,
including ethical decision making.
Provide opportunities to acquire student qualifications if it is the qualification
requirement to acquire work place component for completion.
Work independently and with others, both within and outside the
organization/company, applying professional knowledge and skills.
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Resolve the general shortage of qualified and skilled people in the work force
by encouraging graduates to equip themselves with the necessary practical
experience.
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Maintain regular communication channels to discuss progress, updates and
any challenges faced during internship.
Present completed projects to the team, highlighting key features,
functionalities and technical challenges overcome.
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1.2 Background of the Organization:
The Ministry of Innovation and Technology (MinT), formerly known as the Ministry
of Science and Technology (MoST), Ministry of Communication & Information
Technology, and the Ministry of Science and Technology, is a vital government
agency in Ethiopia, responsible for driving scientific and technological development,
as well as overseeing communication matters. Its inception dates back to December
1975 when it was established as a commission through directive No.62/1975.
Throughout its history, the Ministry has undergone several transformations. After the
change in government in 1991 and the introduction of new economic policies, the
commission was re-established in
March 1994 through Proclamation No.91/94. A significant phase of re-institution took
place on 24 August 1995 with the enactment of Proclamation No.7/1995, following
the establishment of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia. It was during this
phase that the ministry adapted its title to the Ministry of Innovation and Technology
in October 2018.
The Ministry's role in Ethiopia's governance landscape is unique. It plays a pivotal
role in scientific and technological advancement and serves as a governing body for
communication matters. This distinctive
position is reflected in its direct accountability to the office of the Prime Minister,
underlining its importance in driving innovation and technological progress. The
establishment of the ministry is legally enshrined in Article 55, Sub Article 1 of the
FDRE Proclamation No. 1097/2018. A significant milestone in the ministry's
evolution occurred in 2019 when the Ethiopian Ministry of Science and Technology
and the Ministry of Communication and Information Technology were amalgamated
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and reorganized under the umbrella of the "Ministry of Innovation and Technology."
This strategic merger aimed to consolidate resources and expertise, fostering a unified
approach to technological progress and innovation.
Ministers
The Ministry of Innovation and Technology has seen transitions in its leadership over
the years:
October 2018 – February 2020: Dr. Eng. Getahun Mekuria
February 2020 – October 2021: Dr. Abraham Belay
October 2021 – present: Dr. Belete Molla Getahun
These ministers have played crucial roles in guiding the Ministry's efforts in
achieving its objectives in science, technology, and communications development.
Vision
Mission
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These guiding principles encapsulate the core objectives of the ministry and
underscore its role as a driving force for technological and innovative advancement in
Ethiopia.
During our internship, each member of our group, Bontu Dereje (UGR/22760/13),
Roba Chimdesa (UGR/22682/13), Nohi Tesfaye(UGR/22515/13), and Milkessa
Kasaye (UGR/23484/13), was assigned various significant responsibilities. These
tasks revolved around the development and enhancement of the Travel and Tourism
website, and included:
● Collaborating with stakeholders within the ministry to gather comprehensive
requirements for new web features.
● Designing and implementing various web features using HTML, CSS, JavaScript,
PHP, and MySQL.
● Thoroughly testing the website to verify its functionality, responsiveness, and user
experience.
● Providing technical support and troubleshooting to address user issues and ensure
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seamless operation.
These duties required a diverse skill set and collaboration among the team members,
allowing each of us to contribute our unique expertise to the project.
● Training sessions on the technologies and tools that would be utilized during
our development work, including HTML, CSS, JavaScript, PHP, MySQL, and
the WAMP server.
● Familiarization with the development environment, access to resources, and
protocols for collaboration with other ministry staff and stakeholders.
We received invaluable support from the ministry's IT department, which played a
crucial role in our orientation and training process.
Throughout our internship, we benefited from the guidance and support of our
immediate
supervisor at the Ministry of Innovation and Technology. Our supervisor played a
vital role in ensuring our success by:
● Providing regular feedback and direction on our tasks and projects.
● Facilitating collaboration and communication between our group and other relevant
departments.
● Offering insights and solutions to technical challenges as they arose.
● Monitoring our progress and ensuring that we were aligned with the ministry's goals
and expectations.
Our supervisor's mentorship was instrumental in helping us navigate the challenges of
our internship and make meaningful contributions to the ministry's portal website.
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1.3.4. Qualities Developed
In this section, we delve into the technical duties and responsibilities we undertook
during our internship at the Ministry of Innovation and Technology of the Federal
Democratic Republic of Ethiopia (FDRE). We outline the tasks we engaged in and
discuss the knowledge and skills we gained through our work, along with the
invaluable experience of working in an office environment and applying our
university education.
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understanding their needs, expectations, and desired outcomes.
● Web Development: Designing and implementing new web features using a
combination of technologies, including HTML, CSS, JavaScript, PHP, and MySQL.
This encompassed creating dynamic and user-friendly elements for the portal.
● Data Security and Management: Ensuring the security and efficient management of
user data through the utilization of the WAMP (Windows, Apache, MySQL, PHP)
server.
This included data storage, retrieval, and protection measures.
● Technical Support: Providing user support and addressing technical queries or
issues related to the website. This role included prompt troubleshooting and assistance
to ensure uninterrupted service.
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development.
1.4.3. Gained Experience
Real Office Environment and University Learning Application
Our internship at the Ministry of Innovation and Technology also provided us with
invaluable experiences beyond technical knowledge and skills. We had the
opportunity to immerse ourselves in a real office environment, which offered
significant insights into professional office dynamics and work culture. This
experience was instrumental in shaping our understanding of how to operate
effectively as developers in an office setting, including aspects of teamwork,
communication, and project management.
Furthermore, our time at the ministry allowed us to apply the theoretical knowledge
we had gained at the university to real-life scenarios. This transition from academic
learning to practical application was a transformative experience, as we were able to
see how the skills and concepts we had acquired in our courses translated into tangible
results. This hands-on exposure was invaluable in bridging the gap between academic
theory and real-world implementation
CHATER TWO
In this section, we provide a comprehensive overview of the daily technical duties and
responsibilities we undertook during our internship at the Ministry of Innovation and
Technology of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia (FDRE). This section
offers insights into the core technical tasks that defined our internship experience.
During our internship, we undertook several technical duties related to the
development and enhancement of the travel and tourism website. These
responsibilities included:
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HTML/CSS:
created and structured web pages using HTML to ensure semantic markup and
utilized CSS for styling to enhance visual appeal and responsiveness across
various devices
JavaScript:
implemented interactive features using JavaScript, such as image sliders, form
validations, and dynamic content updates, to improve user engagement.
PHP Integration:
Developed server-side functionalities using PHP, including handling user
registrations and logins to insure secure user interactions.
Database Management:
Designed and managed a MySQL database to store and retrieve user data,
booking information, and content for various travel packages
2.1.3 Documentation
Technical Documentation:
Created detailed documentation for the codebase, including comments within the
code and external documentation for future reference and team collaboration.
These technical duties not only contributed to development of the travel and
tourism website but also provided us with valuable hands-on experience in web
development practices
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2.2.1. Collaboration and Teamwork
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● Feature Enhancements: Based on user feedback and our own assessments, we
actively worked on enhancing the portal's features and functionalities to provide an
optimal user experience.
These additional responsibilities broadened our engagement and enriched our
internship experience by allowing us to contribute to the ministry's objectives beyond
the technical aspects of our work. This holistic approach facilitated our understanding
of how technology, innovation, and collaboration drive the ministry's mission and
goals.
In this section, we will delve into how our supervisor at the Ministry of Innovation
and Technology (FDRE) contributed to our success during our internship as junior
developers. We will explore the dynamics of our working relationship, the guidance
and support provided, and the valuable feedback and evaluation process.
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2.3.2. Guidance and Support
Throughout our internship, our supervisor played a pivotal role in providing guidance
and support, which significantly benefited our work as junior developers.
Technical Guidance: Our supervisor offered technical guidance, particularly in
addressing complex technical challenges. They shared their expertise, provided
solutions, and suggested best practices, which was invaluable in advancing our
understanding and problem-solving skills. Project Oversight: Our supervisor offered
comprehensive guidance on the project's objectives and priorities. They clarified the
strategic goals of the project and how our contributions aligned with the broader
vision of the ministry. This guidance ensured that our efforts were directed
effectively. Supportive Work Environment: Our supervisor actively cultivated a
supportive work environment. They encouraged a culture of asking questions, seeking
help, and openly discussing challenges. This environment made us feel comfortable
and motivated to take initiative and ownership of our assignments.
Availability: The availability of our supervisor was a key factor in our success. Their
willingness to help, address concerns promptly, and engage in discussions facilitated
our work and learning process.
The feedback and evaluation process with our supervisor was an essential component
of our internship experience. It played a critical role in our professional growth.
Performance Feedback: Our supervisor regularly provided feedback on our
performance. They reviewed our code, identified areas for improvement, and offered
constructive suggestions for optimization. This feedback was instrumental in
enhancing our coding skills and improving the quality of our work.
Progress Evaluations: Our supervisor conducted periodic evaluations to assess our
progress and contributions. These evaluations allowed us to gauge our performance
against project milestones and make necessary adjustments.
Feedback Integration: We actively integrated the feedback received from our
supervisor into our work. We used this feedback as a roadmap for improvement,
ensuring that we continuously refined our skills and addressed any identified
shortcomings. Career Development: In addition to project-related feedback, our
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supervisor offered insights into potential career paths, industry trends, and the skills
required to succeed in the field of software development. This guidance contributed to
our holistic development as junior developers.
Conclusion
Our relationship with our supervisor, coupled with their guidance, support, and
feedback, played a pivotal role in our success during our internship at the Ministry of
Innovation and Technology (FDRE). Their contributions enriched our learning
experience, improved our technical skills, and reinforced our determination to excel in
the field of software development
2.4. What Qualities Did You Develop Which Allowed You to Succeed
In Your Daily Duties?
In this section, we will reflect on the qualities we developed during our internship at
the Ministry of Innovation and Technology (FDRE) that were instrumental in our
success as junior developers. We will examine the growth we experienced both
personally and professionally, the enhancement of our problem-solving and
adaptability skills, the improvements in our communication and teamwork, and the
development of our time management and organizational abilities.
Our internship at the Ministry of Innovation and Technology (FDRE) was not only a
technical learning experience but also a journey of personal and professional growth.
During the internship, we matured and developed as individuals and professionals.
Individual Growth: The experience pushed us to become more independent and self-
reliant. We learned to take initiative and solve problems on our own. This newfound
sense of independence was empowering and instilled a sense of confidence in our
abilities. Professional Development: Our time at the ministry provided valuable
exposure to a professional work environment. We learned to conduct ourselves with
professionalism, interact with
colleagues, and manage responsibilities in a professional manner. This transition from
a student to a working professional was a significant aspect of our personal and
professional growth.
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2.4.2. Problem-Solving and Adaptability
Our internship experience significantly enhanced our problem-solving skills and
adaptability. We encountered various situations where these qualities were put to the
test. Complex Technical Challenges: As junior developers, we faced complex
technical challenges that required innovative problem-solving. Whether it was
debugging intricate code or devising solutions to technical roadblocks, our ability to
think critically and devise creative solutions improved significantly. Adapting to
Changing Requirements: The nature of our project required us to adapt to evolving
requirements and technologies. We learned to embrace change, adjust our approach,
and pivot when necessary. This adaptability allowed us to stay on track and
effectively address project challenges.
Our communication and teamwork skills saw marked improvement during our
internship, as effective collaboration was essential for the success of the project.
Effective Communication: Working in a team setting demanded clear and effective
communication. We honed our communication skills, ensuring that ideas and
information were conveyed accurately and efficiently. This contributed to better
project coordination and understanding among team members. Collaboration:
Collaborating with colleagues, including our group of four interns, was a central
aspect of our internship. We learned the value of teamwork, shared responsibility, and
leveraging each other's strengths. Our ability to collaborate effectively improved our
problem-solving and project outcomes.
2.4.4. Time Management and Organization
The demands of our internship required us to enhance our time management and
organizational
abilities to meet project deadlines and maintain efficiency.
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Organization: Staying organized became crucial in handling the multifaceted project
scope. We developed strategies for organizing project documentation, code
repositories, and project-related information. This organizational discipline
streamlined our workflow and enhanced efficiency.
Our internship at the Ministry of Innovation and Technology (FDRE) was a
transformative
experience that nurtured personal and professional growth. It equipped us with
problem-solving and adaptability skills, improved our communication and teamwork
abilities, and elevated our time management and organizational competencies. These
qualities were pivotal in our daily duties as junior developers and instrumental in our
overall success during the internship
Chapter 3
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3.1.1. Web Development
Despite not having access to the live portal, one of the central aspects of our
internship was web development. We acquired advanced skills in web development,
including:
● HTML (Hypertext Markup Language): We gained a deep understanding of HTML
and its usage in structuring web content, which would have allowed us to create web
pages with well-defined structures.
● CSS (Cascading Style Sheets): Proficiency in CSS enabled us to style web pages
effectively, granting us the ability to control the layout, color, typography, and overall
design of the portal website to enhance user experience.
● JavaScript: JavaScript was essential for making the portal website dynamic and
interactive. We acquired skills in JavaScript programming to implement client-side
functionality and user interactivity.
● PHP (Hypertext Preprocessor): PHP was a fundamental part of our planned backend
development. We learned how to use PHP for server-side scripting, enabling dynamic
web content generation.
● MySQL: Database management was a critical component of our work. We
developed expertise in MySQL, which would have allowed us to store, retrieve, and
manage data efficiently.
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acquired skills to implement data protection measures and safeguards to protect user
information.
3.1.3. Problem-Solving
Our internship presented us with various complex technical challenges, even without
direct portal access. To address these challenges, we honed our problem-solving
skills. Our ability to analyze issues, identify root causes, and devise innovative
solutions improved significantly. We developed a structured approach to
troubleshooting technical problems, which was instrumental in ensuring the
functionality of the portal website once access is granted.
3.1.4. Collaboration
Effective collaboration was essential in our daily work. We improved our teamwork
and communication skills through interactions with ministry stakeholders and our
group members. Collaborative problem-solving became a core aspect of our work,
and we learned how to leverage each other's strengths to address complex challenges
efficiently.
Our internship required effective time management to meet project deadlines and
maintain efficiency, even without direct access to the portal. We developed skills in
prioritizing tasks, setting achievable milestones, and allocating dedicated time for
specific assignments. These skills allowed us to balance project-related
responsibilities and our personal skill development effectively.
3.1.6. Adaptability
The nature of our project required us to adapt to evolving requirements and emerging
technologies. We learned to embrace change, adjust our approach, and pivot when
necessary, even in the absence of portal access. This adaptability allowed us to stay on
track and effectively address project challenges as they arose.
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3.1.7. Initiative
During our internship at the Ministry of Innovation and Technology (FDRE), we had
the opportunity to identify and contribute to research projects that were directly
relevant to our work in web development and technology. These research projects
were aligned with the ministry's mission to foster innovation and technological
advancement. Below, we outline the relevant research projects that we were involved
in or contributed to during our internship.
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CHAPTER FOUR
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professionals, learn from their expertise, and contribute to meaningful web
development projects. This internship not only enhanced our technical but also
exposed us to the collaborative nature of the industry and the importance of effective
communication and teamwork.
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provided us with a clear understanding of our strengths and areas for improvement,
which will guide our ongoing professional development. We recognize the
importance of continuous learning and growth and are committed to addressing these
areas to further excel in our future careers.
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Chapter Five
Recommendations
5.1 Comment with our personal opinion of the company and the
internship
Based on the importance of having a good connection and interaction between the
supervisor from the company, the student intern, and the advisor from the university,
it is evident that these relationships play a crucial role in the success of an internship.
In our personal opinion, a strong and positive connection between these key
individuals is essential for a fruitful and enriching internship experience. The
supervisor from the company serves as a mentor and guide, providing valuable
industry insights, feedback, and support to the student intern. A good connection with
the supervisor fosters effective communication, trust, and collaboration, allowing the
intern to learn and grow in a supportive environment.
Similarly, the advisor from the university plays a vital role in ensuring that the
internship aligns with the student's academic goals and provides a valuable learning
experience. The advisor serves as a liaison between the academic institution and the
company, overseeing the intern's progress, and providing guidance and support
throughout the internship period. A strong connection between the advisor and the
student intern helps in setting clear expectations, understanding academic
requirements, and facilitating the integration of theoretical knowledge with practical
application.
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In conclusion, from my perspective, establishing a good connection and interaction
between the supervisor from the company, the student intern, and the advisor from the
university is crucial for a successful and rewarding internship experience. It enables
effective communication, mentorship, and support, ensuring that the intern receives
valuable industry insights, guidance, and the opportunity to apply theoretical
knowledge in a real-world setting. This collaborative approach fosters personal and
professional growth, enhances the intern's learning experience, and contributes to the
overall success of the internship.
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5.3 Should you consider the company for the future student
placement?
Conclusion
our internship at the Ministry of Innovation and Technology in Ethiopia has been an
enriching and transformative experience. Working on the development of a travel and
tourism website has provided us with invaluable insights into web development and
the significant role technology plays in promoting Ethiopia’s rich cultural heritage
and natural beauty.
Throughout this internship, we had the opportunity to apply my skills in HTML, CSS,
JavaScript, and PHP, collaborating with a dedicated team of developers and designers.
Together, we created a user-friendly and visually appealing website aimed at
enhancing the online presence of Ethiopia’s tourism sector. This project not only
honed our technical abilities but also taught us the importance of user experience and
accessibility in web design.
One of the most rewarding aspects of this internship was seeing the direct impact of
our work. By improving the digital infrastructure for tourism, we contributed to
making information about Ethiopia’s attractions more accessible to both local and
international visitors. This experience has deepened our understanding of how
technology can drive economic growth and cultural exchange.
Moreover, the mentorship and support we received from my supervisors and
colleagues were instrumental in our professional development. Their guidance helped
us navigate challenges and develop solutions that were both innovative and practical.
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I am grateful for their encouragement and the collaborative environment that fostered
our growth.
In conclusion, our time at the Ministry of Innovation and Technology has solidified
our passion for web development and our commitment to leveraging technology for
societal benefit. We look forward to applying the skills and knowledge we have
gained in future projects and continuing to support initiatives that promote innovation
and progress in Ethiopia.
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Reference
• Tourism Website Designs That Make You Want to Travel Now (webfx.com)
• https://www.w3schools.com/html/
•A free visual guide to CSS
• https://www.w3schools.com/css/
• CSS | MDN (devdoc.net)
• https://www.w3schools.com/js/
• https://www.php.net/
• https://www.w3schools.com/php/
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