Arba Minch University is poised to earn the pride of place in the annals of Space Science with Ethiopian Space Science Society (ESSS) opening its branch at Abaya Campus. In its second seminar at Main Campus, on February 27, 2015, six-member Managing Committee was also formed for the upkeep of the branch. Click here to see the Pictures.

Research Directorate Director, Dr Fantahun briefing students, teachers, top officials and admin staff from across AMU campuses about ESSS, said, ‘‘It’s a matter of pride for university for being its first member in the country. And I am indebted to ESSS and its patron Mr Tefera Waluwa for providing four Galileo Telescopes for Arba Minch Branch.
It’s a great privilege and we are patiently waiting to explore the mysteries of space with it. It will not only generate interest amongst students but would also provide great impetus to Space Science itself with young people getting drawn towards it,’’ he summed up.
At the inception, Mr Tefera Waluwa, the patron of ESSS, briefing the audience about space science, apprised them with its significance; it’s usage in Ethiopia, country’s stand compared to other developed nations etc.
He said, having our own satellite is of immense importance because in the absence of it Ethiopia has to shell out huge foreign exchange to other countries. It’s imperative because we need it for telecom services and would require for our upcoming Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) as well. He also informed the crowd about ESSS’ rules and regulations.
Dr Fantahun elaborating further said, ‘‘Arba Minch branch would continue to coordinate with ESSS. Soon four Galileo Telescopes will be installed at Abaya Campus, but they would be kept mobile so that they can be taken to all of our campuses.
Initially, all those interested would have its privilege but in the days to come, the branch will determine how many days in a week and how many hours AMU community members can avail its services. These Telescopes so powerful that you can even see Mars with it at night time, he added.
At the end, Mr Tefera selected nine members by voice-vote of which six were included in the Managing Committee. The committee has the representation from students, teachers and officials as well. Members are: Zinash Nigussie, Yohannes Tetemke, Tessema Adamu, Lelisa Adaba, Anteneh Gashaye and Mengesha.
The committee will be responsible for the upkeep of the Branch. The panel having chairman, deputy chairman, secretary, auditor, accountant and cashier, is mandated to remain connected to the parent body, keep it posted about ongoing happenings and seek assistance from time to time.

(By Corporate Communication Directorate: Philips Joseph)