Haramaya University played a significant role in the second national Agri-innovation conference and exhibition, “Harvest 365,” organized by Purpose Black Ethiopia.
The event was co-organized by Haramaya University and held at Millennium Hall in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia from February 13-15, 2024.
Dr. Fisseha Eshetu, the founder and CEO of Purpose Black Ethiopia, provided insights into the objectives of the company and its efforts to address economic challenges faced by black people globally. He elaborated on the company’s diverse range of operations, which includes commercial agricultural cluster development, production enhancement, agricultural investment, agro-processing clusters, consumer credit services, and affordable housing.
The expo was officially opened by the State Minister of the Ministry of Agriculture Dr. Sofia Kassa, Various organizations, companies, and universities participated in the expo, with Haramaya University playing a significant role as a joint venture. The three-day-long exhibition and conference featured panel discussions, scientific paper presentations, a national agri-innovation competition award ceremony, and networking sessions.
Haramaya University scholars Professor Wassu Mohammed and Professor Mitiku Eshetu presented scientific papers on agriculture. Senior scholars of HU, Prof. Jeyilan Woliye and Dr. Tessema Toru moderated the discussions of the scientific paper presentations. Dr. Tessema Toru, a staff member of the College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, has been instrumental in establishing a connection between Haramaya University and Purpose Black Ethiopia.
Researchers from Melkasa Agricultural Research Center, Jima, Hawassa, and Debre-Markos Universities have also presented scientific articles.
During the panel discussions, Haramaya University was showcased as a side event with a special emphasis on its pivotal role in the agriculture industry of the country. The University displayed a wide range of its technologies, including released crop varieties, policy briefs, research proceedings, journals, posters, portable poultry houses, manually operated groundnut shearing machines, and citrus fruits.
Haramaya University discussed future collaboration with the company and signed a Memorandum of Understanding to work together on agri-entrepreneurship and related agendas.
In recognition of its significant contribution to the success of the Expo, HU was awarded a certificate by Purpose Black Ethiopia, which was received from Ethiopia’s State Minister for Science and Innovation.
Haramaya University Public & International Relations Directorate