User:GEOLOGY DEPARTMENT, Arba Minch University

1.1 Historical Background Even though some Geo-scientific works dates back to the end of 18th century, well organized research and teaching of geology in Ethiopia started in 1956 G.C through the establishment of the department of Geology in Addis Ababa University. Following the higher education expansion program of the government of Ethiopia and the need for skilled labor on the sector, the department of Applied Geology was launched in Arba Minch University in September 2005 to run undergraduate program in applied geology. But later with the need of harmonizing the curricula of the Applied Geology in all Universities of Ethiopia, the name changed into Geology. The Geology department in Arba Minch University has graduated seven batches since the date of its establishment. Currently, more than 300 students have been attending their study in four batches (1st to 4th year graduating class) and the intake capacity is rising from time to time; currently reaching about 120 students per year. It has been reported that several graduates of the department have been serving in many sectors such as geological surveying, ground water works, construction, tunneling, energy resources, mineral exploration and exploitation, Geo-hazards, and environmental issues. At present, the department is one of among the fastest up growing departments in the Arba Minch University both in skilled manpower and laboratory facilities. Following further national demand for skilled man power in the sector of geosciences, currently the department is intending to launch Masters Degree program in the fields of Hydrogeology and Engineering geology. 1.2 Mission The mission of the Department of Geology, as an integral part of the College of Natural Sciences and Arba Minch university is: -To provide training for future professional geologists directly through high-quality instruction and research involvement in geology. -To contribute to the advancement of scientific knowledge in the field of geology through research activities in selected areas of expertise; -To provide supporting courses and research services for professional programs in such areas as natural resources, soil science, landscape architecture & environmental planning, hydraulics & water resource engineering, irrigation & water resource engineering, water supply & environmental engineering, civil engineering, watershed science, and physical geography; -To enhance the liberal education of university students from other fields by providing high quality instruction in geology and developing an appreciation of the geology and natural resources of Ethiopia; and -To promote an understanding of geology among the general public and to educate the public with respect to the potential impact of geology on everyday life through service to individual citizens, community groups, and public schools. 1.3. Vision To become the preeminent geosciences program in the country with international prominence in geology, geophysics, energy, mineral and water resources, and in the broad areas of the earth sciences, is including the Earth’s environment. To realize this vision, the Department of Geology will pursue initiatives that -Place the department at the forefront of research on water and other earth resources and Geo-hazard management; -Put the department at the forefront of education, student services, and student opportunities; -Create the fabric of a great school of earth sciences; and -Increase our competitiveness for top talent.