Dr. Tesfaye Lemma, recently appointed as President of Wallaga University, is a distinguished academic and development professional with over 30 years of experience in teaching, research, community engagement, and academic leadership. Born and raised in Wollega, Dr. Tesfaye completed his early education in Gulisso, Gimbi, and Dambi Dollo, and went on to earn a BSc in Agricultural Economics from Haramaya University, an MSc in Agricultural Extension from the University of Reading (UK), a Postgraduate Diploma in Rural Policy and Project Planning from the Institute of Social Studies (Netherlands), and a PhD in Rural Development from the University of Pretoria (South Africa).
Prior to his appointment, Dr. Tesfaye served as Associate Professor of Rural Development and Agricultural Extension at Haramaya University and held several leadership roles, including Research Vice President, Head of Outreach Programs, and Director of various research initiatives. He was instrumental in establishing the Africa Center of Excellence for Climate Smart Agriculture and Biodiversity Conservation (ACE Climate SABC), securing a $6 million World Bank grant, and coordinating the Pan-African PASET-RSIF PhD scholarship program.
His research and leadership have focused on agricultural extension, innovation systems, climate change adaptation, market-oriented agriculture, and livelihood diversification. He has published over 50 works, including 35 peer-reviewed journal articles, and has worked with international research institutions such as ILRI and IFPRI. He also served as a national advisor on agricultural extension reform under the Ethiopian Economic Association and Agricultural Transformation Institute.
Dr. Tesfaye’s career reflects a strong commitment to rural development, capacity building, and policy analysis. He is married and the proud father of two daughters, Sena and Nahimi."