Introduction
Chemical sciences play key role in improving the living standard of the society in the world. Particularly, the knowledge of chemistry is indispensable in understanding many areas of related disciplines such as biology, medicine, materials science, etc. Since the beginning of modern education in Ethiopia, chemistry curricula have been prepared and implemented in schools and higher institutions of the country. Moreover, in line with progress of science and technologies, the demand of well-trained chemists in different sectors such as manufacturing, regulatory, research centers, and so on are alarmingly increasing. Thus, designing updated and well-structured chemistry curriculum is vital to achieve the mission, vision and goals of the country.
Chemistry department was launched in 2007 G.C by taking more than fifty undergraduate students. The department also commenced postgraduate study in MSc in four Chemistry streams (Analytical, Organic, Inorganic and Physical) in the academic year of 2014/15 G.C and also PhD in Organic and Inorganic chemistry in the academic year of 2016 G.C.
Vision, Mission and Values of the Department
Vision
Under the umbrella of Wollega University, the Chemistry Department prepares students for a diverse and changing world through enabling students in gaining experience in a laboratory setting, develop proficiency with high-tech scientific equipment and provision of electives in ones area of interest. We strive to contribute to a chemically literate society through practical based teaching with classrooms, laboratories, research, and service. By the year 2042 G.C we will be among the first quartile departments in our University and country and have the staff with assistant professor and above to be 75%.
Mission
The Chemistry Department is aimed to produce competent and innovative professionals by providing rigorous preparation of citizens whose career paths require expertise in chemistry. We are dedicated to rigorous standards for content knowledge, communication skills, research quality, and professional behavior. We are committed to demonstrating science as a human endeavor and as a way to understand the natural world. Our mission also includes community service activities that inform the general public on Chemistry-related disciplines and assist in attracting Grade-12 students within the region into science-related studies. The staffs in the Chemistry Department see themselves as resources for our units, university, western region of Ethiopia, Oromiya state, Ethiopian nation, and world.