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.

STAFF PROFILE

The department currently has the following active staff

The Biology Department at Wollega University is dedicated to producing highly skilled and knowledgeable graduates who can contribute significantly to the nation’s development, particularly in the fields of agriculture, health, industries, and research. As Ethiopia continues to grow in these sectors, the role of biologists becomes increasingly essential, and the department is committed to preparing students to meet these emerging challenges.

The core objective of the Biology Department is to provide quality education that produces graduates who are well-equipped to address the biological and environmental challenges facing the country. The department’s educational programs aim to transform lives and reduce poverty through the application of biological sciences, supporting sustainable development in Ethiopia.

To address national and dynamic needs and requirements, the department crafted its curriculum and has specialized postgraduate programs. Postgraduate courses were crafted to address the pressing needs of food security, public health, and environmental sustainability in Ethiopia. The department has already present a PhD curriculum in Entomology (Insect Science) which has been approved and yet to admit students. The department also endorsed PhD in Wildlife Conservation and Management, and in Biomedical Sciences and waiting for approval.

Lists of Undergraduate Programs

1. Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Biology

The BSc program provides students with a solid foundation in biological sciences, covering topics such as microbiology, botany, zoology, and ecology. It prepares students for various career opportunities in research, industry, and conservation.

2. Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Biology Laboratory Technology

As laboratory experiment is the backbone of basic and applied sciences, it is the mainstay of technological advancement and evolution of human civilization. Therefore, this necessitates training a science laboratory technologist adequately.

Lists of Postgraduate Programs

1. M.Sc in Biology
2. M.Sc in Zoological Science
3. M.Sc in Ecotourism and Wildlife Management
4. M.Sc in Parasitology
5. M.Sc in Entomology (Insect Science)
6. M.Sc in Ecology and Conservation Biology
7. M.Sc in Microbiology and Microbial Biotechnology and
8. M.Sc in Botanical Sciences

Biology is a fundamental scientific discipline that explores the structure, function, growth, evolution, and interactions of living organisms. It serves as a cornerstone of many applied sciences, including medicine, agriculture, biotechnology, environmental science, and conservation. With increasing global challenges such as climate change, food insecurity, biodiversity loss, and emerging diseases, the role of biological sciences has become more critical. The need for a strong foundation in biological sciences has become increasingly important in the 21st century, especially in developing countries like Ethiopia, where challenges such as food insecurity, emerging diseases, environmental degradation, and biodiversity loss require scientifically-informed solutions. In response to these challenges, the Department of Biology (Wollega University) was established in 2007 (1999 E.C). The department began its teaching and learning activity by admitting 47 students in the education program to offer Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) Degree in Biology for the first time. Accordingly, the department of Biology is among the two departments (together with Mathematics department) that admitted students in the College of Natural Sciences. This was a timely and essential step to meet the growing demand for well-trained professionals who can contribute to national and global development.

Currently, the department of Biology has expanded its programs in both undergraduate and post graduates, addressing a large population in its catchment area. The department aims to produce graduates with a solid theoretical background, practical laboratory and field skills, and scientific reasoning abilities. These competencies are critical for careers in teaching, research, healthcare, agriculture, conservation, and biotechnology, as well as for further graduate-level education. In addition, the program will encourage students to apply biological knowledge to address local and global issues in sustainable development, environmental conservation, and public health. Biology department is addressing several segments of the population through alternative modalities, including Evening, Weekend (at Gida Ayana, Gedo and Nejo centers and at Shambu Campus) and summer in-service training, through which thousands have been benefitted.

As the need of professionals in different fields of life science is increasing, the department is working to make its program align with national education policies and sustainable development goals, making a meaningful contribution to the country’s academic and socioeconomic progress by providing its students with a solid foundation in scientific knowledge, analytical thinking, and practical skills needed for careers in research, education, healthcare, natural resource management, and the life sciences industry. Moreover, the department will continue to support interdisciplinary research and innovation, contribute to the advancement of science and technology, and serve as a hub for community outreach and environmental awareness. It will also enhance the university’s capacity to produce high-impact graduates and researchers who can contribute to national development priorities, including public health, sustainable agriculture, and environmental protection.

 Welcome to College of Natural and Computational Sciences!

As the Vice Dean, I would like to take this opportunity to introduce you to our college, a center of intelligent development, academic excellence, and innovative research.  Our College of Natural and Computational Sciences is composed of eight departments. They are Biology, Chemistry, Earth Sciences, Environmental Sciences, Mathematics, Physics, Statistics, and Sport Studies.  Numerous undergraduate and graduate programs are available at our college. We are pleased to offer 14 Bachelor of Sciences (BSc) programs, 34 Masters (MSc) programs and 8 PhD programs at post graduate level. Moreover, our wide range of academic programs, we have a strong commitment to community involvement and research. Our college is constantly working to provide faculty and students with chances to participate in worthwhile research that tackles today's most important problems. We hope our website gives you the knowledge and understanding you require, and we encourage you to investigate the fascinating opportunities available within our college.

With Regards

Temesgen Duressa Keno (PhD, Assistant Professor)

PhD in Applied Mathematics (Optimization)

Vice Dean, College of Natural and Computational Sciences

Wollega University, Nekemte, Ethiopia

Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Mission

To foster ties with private companies, Government and Non-government institutions and industrial associations through continual interactions with these partners. This interface is intended to keep our College's research and academic programs responsive to industry needs and relevant to national development goals.

Vision

Our vision is genuine partnerships to build networks and relationships and improve communication between different sectors of society to connect the College to industries as a means of enriching the university's curricula, promoting research and technologies and as a result advancing the living standard of the society.

 Values

• Integrity
• Entrepreneurial spirit
• Student Success
• Respect
• Excellence
• Diversity
• Creativity
• Collaboration
• Outreach and service                                           
•  Coordinator, university industry linkage and alumni management of the college   

Major Activities

• Establishing formal relationships with industries and University Alumni
• Identify and prioritize researchable issues with relevant units of development
  • To connect alumni to the College and to each other, to provide valuable services to our communityand  support the University’s mission of teaching, research, and community service.
  • To develop a dedicated and dynamic global alumni community whose members are committed to each other, devoted to the Universities Mission, Vision and Values. 
  • Creating life-long connection among the university alumni, parents and friends
  • Encouraging alumni to contribute their time, talent and support for the success of the University

Providing and promoting opportunities for volunteer engagement, professional association and career development, leadership, and fellowship among alum