EtYAS Elects New Executive Committee at 4th General Assembly
The Ethiopian Young Academy of Sciences (EtYAS) elected a new Executive Committee during its 4th General Assembly Meeting, held on Feb. 12, 2026, at the headquarters of the EAS. Prof. Workabeba Abebe was elected Chair of EtYAS, with Dr. Shigdaf Mekuria as Vice Chair and Dr. Hanna Yemane as Secretary. Dr. Messay Gebremariam and Dr. Mastewal Alehegn were elected as members of the Executive Committee.
The assembly began with a welcome address by Dr. Birhanu Beshah, outgoing Co-Chair of EtYAS. Dr. Birhanu presented a comprehensive report reviewing the Academy’s 10-year journey, highlighting its achievements, lessons learned, and future goals. He emphasized the critical importance of strengthening EtYAS’s institutional arrangements to ensure sustainability.
In his opening remarks, Prof. Belay Kassa, President of the EAS, reaffirmed that scientific knowledge remains the cornerstone of national development. He noted that EtYAS was established to nurture promising young scientists and provide them with a platform to contribute meaningfully to Ethiopia’s progress.
The keynote address was delivered by Prof. Teketel Yohannes, Executive Director of the EAS. He provided an overview of the global “Young Academy” movement, which began in Germany in 2000 and expanded significantly with the establishment of the Global Young Academy in 2010. Prof. Teketel encouraged EtYAS to deepen its international engagement and strengthen collaborations with regional networks.
A major highlight of the Assembly was the formal induction of 30 new members from diverse scientific disciplines. These new members were introduced to the Assembly, and each provided a brief overview of their professional background and research focus. During the ceremony, they were presented with official certificates of membership, marking their formal entry into EtYAS.
The Assembly also honored members who have completed their 10-year tenure. In accordance with the Academy’s bylaws, these outgoing members were formally transitioned to Alumni status.
Prominent EtYAS fellows Prof. Workabeba Abebe and Prof. Kaleab Baye shared their best practices and experiences regarding research excellence, science communication, mentorship, and community engagement.
The Assembly concluded with a tour of science centers affiliated with the Ethiopian Academy of Sciences.
The 4th General Assembly marked a significant milestone for EtYAS, successfully blending leadership renewal, generational transition, and institutional reflection.
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