January 24, 2019 – Delegates from Oklahoma State University led by Dr. Thomas Coon, Vice-president for Agricultural Programs are on a three day visit at Haramaya University where they also visited the Africa Center of Excellence for Climate Smart Agriculture and Biodiversity Conservation (ACE Climate SABC).
The delegates discussed on possible collaborations of Oklahoma State University and Haramaya University as well as the ACE Climate SABC to partner on post graduate studies and research activities.
Preliminary discussions has been conducted to pave ways for establishing partnerships between Oklahoma State University and Africa Center of Excellence for Climate Smart Agriculture and Biodiversity Conservation.
In his opening remark, Professor Nigussie Dechassa, Vice President for academic affairs and Leader of ACE Climate SABC reiterates the notable historical attachment of the two universities since the 1950s.
“Every Haramayan and members of the community in the vicinity of this university fondly and sentimentally recall the historical relationship that had existed between this institution and Oklahoma State University”, he underscored.
Professor Nigussie also suggested that the two universities should explore the possibilities of increasing academic exchanges and added, “I am sure that we will be able to sign an MoU between OSU and HU”.
Dr. Thomas Coon, Vice President, Dean and Director of the Oklahoma State University Division of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resource, noted that, for OSU, there would be no more important partnership to establish than the partnership they intend to re-establish with Haramaya University, given the historical and sentimental attachments both institutions had to each other.
A brief highlight of the ACE Climate SABC establishment and its current status was presented by Dr. Bobe Bedadi, Deputy Center Leader of the Center that kindles a good understanding of the Center for the visitors.
Oklahoma State University partnered with Haramaya University starting from the establishment of the latter back in 1952.