The Ethiopian Academy of Sciences (EAS) convened its 14th Annual General Assembly Regular Meeting on Saturday, December 29, 2025, at the Ethiopia Study Institute Hall of Addis Ababa University. The gathering brought together fellows, senior scholars, and stakeholders to review institutional performance, affirm governance priorities, and advance the Academy’s long-term strategic agenda.
The session opened with remarks from the Academy President, Professor Belay Kassa, who underscored the Academy’s commitment to strengthening national scientific capacity and expanding its contribution to evidence-based policymaking. The opening was followed by a moment of remembrance honoring members who passed away during the year.
In line with EAS governance procedures, fellows elected during the 2017 election round were formally introduced by representatives of the Academy’s working groups. The assembly then approved the minutes of the 13th Regular Meeting after addressing comments and clarifications.
A core highlight of the agenda was the presentation of the 2017 EFY Activity Report by Executive Director Professor Teketel Yohannes. His briefing outlined key achievements across research programs, policy advisory activities, fellow engagement initiatives, and institutional partnerships. After constructive discussion, the report was approved unanimously.
The assembly also reviewed the 2017 EFY audit report, presented by an independent accountant. The report confirmed the integrity of the Academy’s financial management systems, and members approved it without reservation.
Looking ahead, the Academy discussed the 2018 EFY work plan and budget, focusing on strengthening impact through enhanced fellow participation, scalable research initiatives, and broader national and international collaboration.
The meeting also addressed matters related to the election of new regular and associate members, as well as other institutional priorities. During this session, the Academy welcomed notable additions to its fellowship:
The Academy accepted 18 Regular Fellows, 3 Associate Fellows, and 1 Honorary Fellow into its Fellowship.
- Lemi Sisay, Ethio-British poet and former Chancellor of the University of Manchester, was inducted as an Associate Fellow under the Creative Arts Working Group.
- Professor Gebisa Ejeta, renowned Ethiopian-American scientist and recipient of the U.S. National Medal of Science for groundbreaking work in crop genetics, was unanimously approved as an Honorary Fellow following nomination by the Chair of the Agriculture Working Group.
Both appointments underscore the Academy’s commitment to elevating scientific excellence and enriching its intellectual community with globally recognized leaders.
The meeting elected new Board Members for the next three years.
The session closed with forward-looking dialogue on enhancing fellow engagement and aligning efforts to deliver stronger national impact. The Academy reaffirmed its strategic focus on innovation, collaboration, and evidence-driven development.
