Message from the Dean



Dear Visitors,

Welcome to the College of Agricultural Sciences, Wachemo University!

As the Dean, it is my great pleasure to extend a warm greeting to all students, faculty, staff, partners, and guests visiting our website. I am delighted to introduce you to a college that is committed to academic excellence, innovative research, and impactful community engagement in the field of agriculture. The College of Agricultural Sciences was established in the 2012/13 academic year as part of Wachemo University’s strategic mission to align with Ethiopia’s national policy on agricultural development and economic transformation. The college began with three foundational departments—Plant Science, Animal Science, and Natural Resource Management—and has since expanded to include Horticulture, Environmental Science, and Food Science and Postharvest Technology.

Over the years, the College has grown significantly, both in scope and capacity. Today, we proudly offer:

  • 8 undergraduate (BSc) programs: Plant Science, Animal Science, Horticulture, Agricultural Economics, Natural Resource Management, Food Science and Postharvest Technology, Environmental Science, and Rural Development and Agricultural Extension.
  • 10 Master's programs: Animal Production, Animal Breeding and Genetics, Agronomy, Agroforestry, Integrated Water Shade Management, Agricultural Economics, Soil Science, Environmental Science, Rural Development and Agricultural Extension, and Livelihood & Food Security.
  • 1 PhD program in Soil Science.

Our mission is to become a center of excellence in Agro-Processing and Agricultural Innovation, addressing both local and regional challenges in food security, sustainability, and environmental resilience. One of our key priorities is to contribute to solving the critical issue of feeding a rapidly growing population through the development of skilled, problem-solving professionals and impactful research.

To support these objectives, the College is equipped with:

  • Modern laboratories in Soil Science, Plant and Horticultural Science, Food Science, Animal Nutrition, GIS (Geographic Information System), and Environmental Science.
  • Extensive demonstration farms and specialized sites for dairy and beef cattle, beekeeping, and improved forage production.
  • Seven agricultural research centers located across our Main Campus, Lambuda, Shonkola, Shone, Orcha, Buma, and Durame Campus.

We take pride in our highly qualified academic staff, comprising 135 members, including 22 PhD holders, 24 Assistant Professors, 62 MSc holders, and 27 technical assistants and 8 admin staff. This academic strength enables us to deliver both theoretical and hands-on education and research experiences that prepare our graduates to excel in the agricultural sector.

We warmly welcome researchers, non-governmental organizations, development partners, and stakeholders working in the field of agriculture to collaborate with us. Our college and academic staff are fully committed to working together to develop innovative solutions and make a lasting impact on improving the livelihoods of our communities. We believe that through strong partnerships, we can achieve shared goals in sustainable agricultural development.

Whether you are a prospective student, a researcher, or a community stakeholder, we invite you to explore the opportunities we offer and to become part of our mission to advance agricultural sciences in Ethiopia and beyond.

If you have any questions or would like more information, please feel free to contact me or any of our departments.

Warm regards,
Yohannes Erkeno Handiso (Assistant Professor)
Dean, College of Agricultural Sciences
Wachemo University