A Growing Hub of Research, Innovation, and Excellence

Hawassa University’s journey began in 1976 with the establishment of the Awassa College of Agriculture, a specialized institution created to strengthen Ethiopia’s agricultural education and research. From these humble beginnings, the College became known for producing highly skilled professionals in agriculture and natural resource management, many of whom went on to serve in key leadership positions nationally and internationally.

Over the decades, the College of Agriculture expanded its programs and research capacity, contributing significantly to Ethiopia’s food security and agricultural modernization. Its pioneering work in sustainable land management, soil and water conservation, and crop improvement became models for national agricultural practices. The College’s extension programs also bridged the gap between academia and farming communities, directly impacting rural livelihoods.

In 2000, the Awassa College of Agriculture was upgraded to Hawassa University (HU), marking the beginning of a new era. Since then, HU has grown into a comprehensive higher learning institution with multiple campuses, diverse academic disciplines, and a strong reputation in teaching, research, and community service.

Key milestones include:

• Academic Expansion: From a single agriculture-focused college, HU now hosts multiple colleges and institutes covering health sciences, engineering, business, education, social sciences, and more.
• Research and Innovation: The University has become a hub of scientific inquiry, producing hundreds of publications annually and addressing national priorities such as food security, health, climate change, and technology.
• National Recognition: HU manages five nationally accredited journals, six accredited research centres, and one accredited laboratory that meets international standards.
• Innovation and Entrepreneurship: The University has registered intellectual properties, incubated technologies, and established start-ups, showcasing its role in linking research to real-world solutions.
• Community Impact: Building on its agricultural legacy, HU has extended its community service to health outreach, environmental protection, youth empowerment, and entrepreneurship programs.

Today, HU is transitioning into an autonomous research university, reinforcing its commitment to excellence and global competitiveness. It stands as one of Ethiopia’s most influential universities, with a legacy rooted in agriculture but expanded to shape the nation’s broader development agenda.

Hawassa University’s success story reflects resilience, growth, and a vision for the future—transforming from a specialized College of Agriculture into a centre of knowledge, innovation, and excellence with national and international impact.