By Ebrahim Seid and Shemsedin Mohammed/Public and International Relations Directorate
Haramaya University students won the first National Climate Discourse held during 20-23 November 2014 in Addis Ababa University Akaki Campus.
The Conference was organized and facilitated by Addis Ababa University and a nongovernmental organization which operates in the Horn of Africa on issues of environmental protection.

The prime objective of the conference was to actively engage young people in an effort to mitigate and tackle climate change for sustainable development.

Teams from 10 universities participated in the conference. Haramaya University was represented by a 5th year students from the College of Law. The students were Henok Gebreegziabeher, Yidnekachew Biru, and Robel Yeshitila as well as Kedija Kediro and Abeje Desalegn from Rural Development and Civil Engineering departments respectively.

According to Henok Gebrezgiybher the topic of the presentation for the team from Haramaya was “conservation and preservation of forests for green economy’’. It aims to ensure sustainable environmental protection. The speech made by the participants of Haramaya was found to be extraordinary and concrete and highly appreciated by the guests who attended the conference.

Finally, the juries selected Haramaya University as The Best University in the First National Climate change Discourse. Addis Ababa and Mekele Universities stood second and third respectively.

The team has handed over the trophy to Dr. Girma Amente, president of Haramaya University, at his office. Dr. Girma said he was extremely very happy by the victory brought by the outstanding and proactive students and pledged to assist and provide all the necessary supports to realize sustainable green and healthy environment.

The team currently is doing its best to actively work with different clubs and the administration of Bate kebele to organize various campaigns focusing on climate change and environmental protection. They are also preparing to participate in the international round of the competition to be held after three months.