Arba Minch University (AMU) and the Ethiopian Meteorological Institute (EMI) have been officially designated as Regional Training Centers (RTCs) by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO). The designation was approved on 22 June, 2026 during the 80th Session of the WMO Executive Council (EC), marking a significant achievement for both institutions and Ethiopia. Senior University officials expressed their delight over the achievement, describing it as a testament to years of institutional commitment, collaboration, and academic excellence. Click here to see more photos.
Speaking on the occasion, AMU President Dr. Ing. Abdella Kemal described the designation as a landmark achievement for Arba Minch University and the Ethiopian Meteorological Institute. He noted that the recognition followed a rigorous international evaluation, during which AMU's academic strengths and contributions through the Arba Minch Water Technology Institute were demonstrated. Dr. Abdella stated that the designation enhances the global visibility of both institutions and establishes the Regional Training Centre as an international hub for training and capacity building. He added that the recognition will support the advancement of climate science and technology at institutional and national levels, further strengthening AMU's standing as a reputable international university. The President also expressed his appreciation to the leadership and staff of EMI and AWTI for their dedication in making the achievement a reality.
Dr. Teklu Wegayehu, Vice President for Research and Cooperation, stated that the designation elevates AMU's growing role in undertaking nationally significant responsibilities while enhancing its international standing. He noted that the achievement reflects the University's steady progress toward its strategic goals, particularly through the Arba Minch Water Technology Institute, where water has been established as a center of excellence. Dr. Teklu commended the Director General of the Ethiopian Meteorological Institute, who also serves as an AMU Board Member, for his invaluable contribution and leadership throughout the process. He also expressed his appreciation to the EMI team, the leadership of AWTI, the Faculty of Meteorology and Hydrology, and the entire AMU community, congratulating them on the remarkable achievement.
Dr. Tamiru Teseme, Scientific Director of the Arba Minch Water Technology Institute (AWTI), expressed his delight over the designation, noting that it is the result of sustained efforts to attain the status. He stated that AMU has worked to align its curricula with international standards, including European benchmarks, making its programs highly relevant and competitive. Dr. Tamiru pointed out that although Ethiopia has been a member of the World Meteorological Organization since 1963, no institution in the country had previously attained such recognition. He attributed the achievement to the strong collaboration between AMU and the Ethiopian Meteorological Institute. According to him, the designation will strengthen professional networks, promote the exchange of scientific knowledge, and enhance the utilization of best practices in meteorology and hydrology.
Dr. Yosef Arba, Dean of the Faculty of Meteorology and Hydrology at AWTI, expressed his delight over the designation, noting that it resulted from sustained institutional effort, self-evaluation, and continuous improvement. He acknowledged the valuable support of the Ethiopian Meteorological Institute in helping AMU achieve the milestone. Dr. Yosef emphasized that the recognition is particularly remarkable because both a national institution and an academic institution were designated simultaneously, a model rarely seen elsewhere in Africa. He added that the achievement reflects the strength of the AMU–EMI collaboration and creates new opportunities for academic excellence, professional training, and scientific advancement. According to him, the designation marks a bright future for AMU, EMI, and Ethiopia in meteorological and hydrological education, research, and capacity building.
The designation marks a major milestone for Arba Minch University and the Ethiopian Meteorological Institute, recognizing their contributions to meteorological and hydrological education, research, and professional training. Beyond enhancing the visibility of both institutions, the Regional Training Centre status is expected to strengthen capacity building, foster scientific collaboration, and support the development of skilled professionals capable of addressing emerging weather, climate, and water-related challenges at national and international levels.
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