Arba Minch University has recently held ‘sale of lottery’ for its community to generate fund to be contributed towards ongoing construction of Grand Ethiopia Renaissance Dam at Senate Hall. The same was replicated by all colleges in their respective campuses. Click here to see the pictures.
The event has enabled AMU to generate ETB 40,000 in which top officials, college deans, directors, coordinators and others bought 456 tickets worth ETB 18,240. Remaining 544 tickets worth ETB 21760 were purchased by teachers, admin staff and students, informed Procurement Service and Property Administration Directorate Director, Mr Nigussie Zeleke.
Dr Damtew Darza, said from the beginning, AMU community has been contributing for GERD in different forms and lottery sale is one of such efforts. It will be a landmark achievement that is bound to infuse Ethiopians with greater sense of confidence and national pride.
Apprising the audience with GERD’s status, Institute of Technology’s Scientific Director, Dr Negash Wagesho, said, ‘‘Ethiopia’s 12 rivers (9 wet & 3 dry) that have annual run-off of 122 billion meter square give the monthly flow of just 43 cubic meter per capita compared to USA’s 6150, is far below the mark. Therefore, judicious use of water resources is imperative.’’
GERD’s expected power generation capacity will solve many of our problems. Citing long-term impacts he adds, ‘‘Sediments in the rivers will be curtailed as it will ensure annual flow of rivers thus improving supply. It will also strengthen the mutual cooperation between bordering nations as well.’’
The discussion ensued after presentation evoked emotional response from the participants. Especially Vice President for Research and Community Service, Dr Guchie Gulie, and other officials felt that GERD is the amazing embodiment of the national pride and individual dignity.
Telephonically, updating on GERD, site engineer, Mr Girma Mengistu, informed, over 50% of construction has been completed. Of 10.2 million cubic meters reinforced cement concrete to be used, 60% has already been casted and remaining will be used in the later stages.
He further adds, Saddle Dam that will increase the quantum of water reserved has also utilized 6 million cubic meters concrete with foundation built 600 meter above sea level. Other permanent structures like galleries, power house, bottom outlets except four culverts those will be replaced by 8 Up and Downstream gates after completion of the dam are in progress.
(By Philips Joseph: Corporate Communication Directorate)