Academic Programs and Future Expansion
- The Department of Agroforestry currently offers two active academic programs: a Bachelor of Science in Agroforestry and a Master of Science in Forest Management and Climate Change. In line with our commitment to advancing education and research in this field, we plan to expand our master’s programs. These plans include introducing Master of Science in Production Forestry, Master of Science in Agroforestry, Master of Science in Forest Economics, and Master of Science in Forest Management and Utilization. These additional programs will further equip graduates with specialized knowledge and skills to address evolving challenges and opportunities in forestry and agroforestry.
Laboratory and Demonstration Facilities
- Although the department’s laboratories are not fully equipped and functional, several key demonstration sites are actively used to enhance the practical learning experiences of students. These include Debre Markos University Main Campus Nursery Sites, which play a crucial role in hands-on training, and the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources Demonstration Site, which provides an excellent venue for showcasing agroforestry practices and techniques. Additionally, the Yeraba Forest serves as an essential resource for field studies and practical sessions, while the East to West Gojjam Zone Agroforestry Practices offer real-world insights into agroforestry applications. Collectively, these facilities supported the practical training of students, ensuring that they acquired the necessary skills and experience in agroforestry and forestry management.
Academic Growth and Achievements
- The Department of Agroforestry began admitting students to the Bachelor of Science in the Agroforestry program in mid-2013, marking the start of a new chapter in forestry education. This initiative aimed to equip students with comprehensive knowledge and practical skills in agroforestry to address the growing need for sustainable land management practices. By 2015, the department had proudly celebrated the graduation of its first cohort of BSc students, who were well prepared to contribute to the field. Currently, the department also supports 10 MSc students enrolled in the extension program at the Bechena campus, further expanding its reach and impact. The graph below illustrates the steady growth in student enrollment from mid-2013 to the present, reflecting the department’s ongoing commitment to educating future leaders in agroforestry.
Practical Session on Forest Mensuration and Inventory at Yeraba Forest, Amhara Forest Enterprise Site, Debre Markos
First Graduating Class of Agroforestry Programs (Academic Year 2015) and College Level Medalist: Abera Negash
