Dr. Bemnet Abegaz, Dean of the College of Agriculture and Natural Resource Sciences, delivered the welcome address. She emphasized that the conference focused on narrowing the gap between scientific research and indigenous knowledge to achieve food security.
Dr. Bemnet highlighted that the university's collaboration with international institutions on projects addressing global food security and climate change solutions. The essential role of women and youth involvement in making agriculture effective. And the need for research findings to move beyond paper and be implemented on the ground to bring tangible change to the community.
Dr. Asmare Malese, President of Debre Berhan University, officially opened the program. He stated that the conference aimed to solve agricultural challenges by integrating technology-backed knowledge with indigenous practices. He noted that food security must not only be about increasing productivity but must also be equitable and sustainable.
Dr. Asmare further explained that climate change is currently disrupting rainfall patterns, exacerbating droughts and floods. To combat this, the university is focusing research on crop production, animal production, health, food science, and natural resource conservation. And he added that our university is Partnering with international organizations such as DANIDA, Aarhus University, and the University of Nairobi including committed to ensuring research results reach farmers to build climate resilience.
Dr. Dejene Kasahun (Scientist at the Alliance of Bioversity International and CIAT) stressed that data analysis and research are vital to managing climate-induced disasters. He highlighted that Evolutionary Plant Breeding (EPB)—which centers on public participation—can reduce crop loss due to disease by 30% to 50%.And he encouraged the strengthening of the "Genetic Biodiversity for Growth and Livelihood Improvement" (GCBC) project.
Dr. Tewodros Eshetu (Lead Trainer at Andreas Hermes Academic and Agri-Business Advisor): focused on Agripreneurship, the transition of agriculture from traditional subsistence to a profitable business model. He argued that commercializing agriculture accelerates rural development and job creation. And Dr. Tewodros encouraged farmers to move toward market-oriented enterprises by combining technical knowledge with business management skills to improve market access and income.
The conference included the presentation of six research papers followed by in-depth discussions. Certificates were awarded to keynote speakers and researchers for their contributions.
In his closing remarks, Dr. Zemenu Bires, Director of Research Publication and Ethics Dissemination at Debre Berhan University, urged stakeholders from the city, zone, and regional agricultural bureaus to work together. He emphasized that the ultimate goal is to implement practical solutions on the ground that solve the community's problems and bring about meaningful progress.
