About the Department
Department of Forestry at Mattu University, Bedele Campus, was established in 2015 G.C. and is dedicated to producing competent graduates who are capable of sustainably managing forests and natural resources. The department is firmly rooted in a commitment to academic excellence, hands-on practical training, and meaningful community engagement all geared toward promoting sustainable development and environmental conservation. With a clear mission to foster sustainable forest management, the department offers a well-rounded undergraduate program in Forestry that integrates ecological, economic, and social dimensions. The curriculum of the department is well designed to equip students with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills.
The students of the departments are guided by a team of 12 qualified instructors and 4 technical assistants. The department is well-equipped with specialized facilities and it benefits from the surrounding forest areas, which serve as outdoor laboratories for field-based learning. Both staff and students actively participate in research that addresses pressing environmental challenges such as deforestation, biodiversity conservation, and climate change adaptation. Additionally, the department is engaged in reforestation campaigns, sustainable land use training, and community outreach programs, reinforcing its role as a hub for environmental advocacy and action.
Since its establishment, Department of Forestry has proudly graduated more than 250 students, who now contribute to various sectors. Through its integrated approach to education, research, and community service, the department continues to play a critical role in nurturing environmental stewardship and advancing sustainable resource management in the country.
Mr. Bonsa Belay Melaku
HoD's Message
Welcome to Department of Forestry at Mattu University Bedele Campus. Since its establishment in 2015 G.C., Department of Forestry has grown into a vibrant academic unit committed to excellence in teaching, research, and community service. We take pride in preparing future forestry professionals who are equipped with the knowledge, practical skills, and ethical values necessary to sustainably manage and conserve forest resources. Our curriculum is thoughtfully designed to address both national and global environmental challenges through a balance of theoretical instruction and hands-on experience. With a team of dedicated instructors and laboratory support staff, we provide quality education that nurtures innovation, critical thinking, and environmental stewardship among our students. Beyond classroom learning, we place strong emphasis on research, fieldwork, and community outreach. Our department actively engages with stakeholders on critical issues such as climate change adaptation, land degradation, ecosystem restoration, and sustainable land use. One of our key areas of focus is the Yayo Forest Biosphere Reserve, a unique and ecologically significant site that serves as a natural laboratory for our students and researchers. Through collaborative studies and conservation efforts in this reserve, we contribute to the preservation of biodiversity and traditional ecological knowledge. We also incorporate modern tools and technologies such as GIS and remote sensing to enhance forest resource management and environmental monitoring. These capabilities allow our students to remain competitive and effective in today’s data-driven world of environmental science. I warmly invite you to explore the opportunities offered by our department and to join us in advancing sustainable development through forestry education and research. Together, we can make a meaningful and lasting impact on our environment and society.
Vision
The department's vision is to be a center of excellence in research, education, and extension of forestry and forest resources. The department aims to play a major role in the sustainable management, utilization, and conservation of forests and forest-related resources, as well as in the attainment of food security and poverty alleviation.
Mission
The mission of the Forestry Department is to produce and to transmit knowledge about the function and dynamics of forests and related renewable resources to all stakeholders/customers; to encourage continual learning about forest and related renewable resources and their role in making people's lives better; and to produce graduates who will manage the forest and related resources on sustainable bases.