Implementation and accomplishment of the MSc Agrometeorology and Natural Risk Management Program at Harmaya University, Ethiopia

Africa is the most vulnerable region to climate change/variability/hazards. More than ever, improved understanding of early warning systems including weather and climate prediction and initiatives highlighting the effects of global warming are important educational priorities. In view of this, Haramaya University in collaboration with key stakeholders under the auspices of the Regional Universities Forum for Capacity Building in Agriculture (RUFORUM) designed a unique academic program intended to offer a Masters of Science in Agrometeorology and Natural Risk management (AMNRM) . The first cohort of students (eleven) have been enrolled, five and six regional and national students, respectively in October 2013. The fact that the program attracted foreign students to be part of the first cohort is testimony for its relevance and well sought program. The curriculum was deemed relevant by several stakeholders including the Intra-ACP Mobility Programs which elected the course to be part of a regional programe that is promoting mobility of students. The focus of this maiden MSc program is to develop and strengthen the regional human resources and institutional capacity in impact-oriented training and research in AGMNRM as an entry point towards food self-sufficiency through sustainable use of resources and management of climatic and non-climatic hazards or risks in the Eastern, Central and Southern Africa region. The development and delivery of the program has been strategically implemented through stakeholder analysis, curriculum development, approval by the university Senate and rigorous selection process and enrollment. The expertise to facilitate student training and research is drawn from the region. The first group of students has so far been exposed to intensive theoretical and practical field and laboratory studies during the first year and thesis research work in the second year of the study program. It is anticipated the knowledge and skill that students in this study program gain will undoubtedly benefit them to be able to analyse and interpret climatic and natural risk based information and subsequently build regional and national capacity to champion processes of designing innovative solutions towards solving (and/or mitigating) problems related to climate change and natural risks.