The Faculty of Agriculture at Shambu Campus plays a significant role in conducting problem-solving, community-oriented research that contributes to agricultural development and food security in Ethiopia. The research and technology transfer activities are well-aligned with national priorities and are executed in close collaboration with key stakeholders, including local farmers, agricultural offices, research institutes, NGOs, and international partners. Regular communication and reporting are maintained with the university's higher administration and relevant external bodies such as the Ministry of Education to ensure transparency, coordination, and alignment with strategic goals.
Currently, the campus is actively engaged in 30 ongoing research projects, many of which are multidisciplinary and address critical challenges facing the agricultural sector. These projects are structured under two main thematic areas:
1. Agronomic Management Research
The Faculty is actively involved in developing and testing agronomic management packages aimed at improving crop productivity, soil fertility, and resource use efficiency. Specific research focuses include:
- Optimization of seed rates and fertilizer applications, both chemical and organic (e.g., vermicompost, vermiwash, and farmyard manure—FYM).
- Studies addressing soil acidity problems common in the region through lime application and soil amendments.
- Weed management strategies, including the timing and method of weeding to reduce competition and improve yields.
- Integrated nutrient and pest management practices tailored to smallholder farmers’ contexts.
These efforts aim to provide evidence-based recommendations to enhance farm-level productivity and sustainability.
2. Variety Development, Introduction, and Adaptation Trials
Another major area of focus is the development, introduction, and adaptation of improved crop varieties suited to local agroecologies. Activities include:
- Wheat germplasm screening to identify rust-resistant varieties, crucial in combating yield loss due to disease.
- Introduction and trial of various crops such as tef, wheat, barley, lentil, linseed, soybean, potato, and tomatoes for yield potential, disease resistance, and climate adaptability.
- Seed production and dissemination programs for major crops like wheat, barley, tef, and potatoes, ensuring access to quality seeds by local farmers.
- Forage development research, including trials of elephant grass, Desho grass, and other improved forages to support livestock productivity.
- Introduction and promotion of avocado technologies, focusing on improved varieties, nursery establishment, and best management practices for smallholder farmers.
Collaboration and Future Plans
The Faculty’s research projects are supported through collaborations with stakeholders such as regional agriculture bureaus, research centers (e.g., EIAR), universities, and international development organizations. These partnerships help in knowledge sharing, capacity building, and wider dissemination of technologies.
Moving forward, the Faculty of Agriculture plans to:
- Expand its research on climate-smart agriculture.
- Strengthen community-based seed systems.
- Intensify efforts in fruit and vegetable value chain development.
- Enhance research infrastructure and seek more international collaborations and funding opportunities.
Improve technology transfer through field days, training sessions, and demonstration plots