About the Department
This program is designed to respond to immediate needs of the country to increase crop production and productivity, and thereby contribute to improve the livelihood of its people. The program aims at producing competent professionals who are well equipped with both theoretical and practical knowledge and skills in managing all aspects of plant production and management in the Ethiopian context and, thereby to conduct various plant science related research and development activities, which can contribute to the country’s development program. The curriculum is designed in convention way where courses are set to be completed semester wise.
Ketema Niguse Baye
ketema.niguse@mau.edu.et
HoD's Message
Agriculture remains the backbone of Ethiopia’s economy, with vast potential for development. Despite having 51.3 million hectares of arable land and abundant water resources, only 22.8% is currently cultivated, leaving food security a major challenge. This issue is compounded by factors such as population growth, urban expansion, climate change, resource depletion, inflation, unemployment, and political instability. To address these challenges, increasing crop production and productivity is crucial through improved technologies, efficient resource management, and reducing losses. The demand for skilled professionals in agriculture is growing, making the role of higher education institutions vital.
The Department of Plant Science at Mattu University was established to bridge this gap by training highly skilled professionals, conducting problem-solving research, and delivering impactful community services. Our region, rich in agricultural resources and biodiversity, is a major producer of Arabica coffee, cereals, pulses, fruits, and oil crops. With favorable climatic conditions, fertile soil, and abundant water resources, we are committed to enhancing sustainable agricultural practices. Through hands-on training, research-driven innovation, and strong community engagement, our department strives to ensure food security and drive agricultural transformation at both regional and national levels.
Vision
Department of Plant Science aims to be one of the leading departments of agricultural institutions and full-fledged center of excellence in the area of mid-altitude crops production in southwest Ethiopia by 2030.
Mission
The program will contribute to the development of agricultural sector and thereby ensure food security and self-sufficiency through:
Ø Teaching and research activities in the area of crop production and management,
Ø Generating knowledge and producing skilled manpower in the field of crop production,
Ø Offering tailor-made trainings and consultancy services for those involved in crop production, either small scale producers or commercial as well,
Ø Modernizing crop production sector by supplying it improved technologies i.e. improved seed or planting material, propagation techniques, optimum fertilization, irrigation, and crop pest management etc., and
Improving the quality of living of the society by supplying surplus production by maximizing productivity.