Eshetu – Environmental science – Best Researcher Award

Published on by Civil Engineering

Eshetu - Environmental science - Best Researcher Award

Dilla University - Ethiopia

AUTHOR PROFILE

ORCID

🌍 SUMMARY

Dr. Eshetu is a distinguished Associate Professor at Dilla University, Ethiopia, renowned for his academic and research excellence in land resource management and environmental studies. His current roles span across continents, including visiting research scholar appointments in China and Ethiopia, reflecting his global academic presence. A multifaceted professional, he contributes to education, research, consulting, and editorial responsibilities. As the Editor-in-Chief of the Ethiopian Journal of Environment and Development, his leadership in scholarly communication is notable. Dr. Eshetu's wide-reaching consultancy services include impact assessments, rural livelihoods, and agricultural transformation strategies. With over two decades of experience, he continues to shape sustainable development discourse through both practice and publication. His expertise not only influences academic thought but also contributes meaningfully to national policies and development initiatives. His academic rigor, collaborative spirit, and commitment to capacity building make him a vital asset in Africa’s pursuit of environmental and agricultural resilience.

🎓 EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS

Dr. Eshetu’s educational journey reflects a deep commitment to environmental stewardship and natural resource sustainability. He earned his Ph.D. in Land Resource Management from Nanjing Agricultural University, China, in 2017, where he was twice honored as an “Excellent International Student” due to his exceptional academic performance. His earlier studies include an MSc in Natural Resource and Environmental Studies and a BSc in Forestry, both from Hawassa University, Ethiopia. These foundational qualifications equipped him with theoretical and practical insights that would later inform his scholarly and applied work. His participation in international and national training programs has further expanded his expertise, preparing him to address pressing global challenges such as food insecurity, land degradation, and environmental governance. Through his academic trajectory, Dr. Eshetu has cultivated a rich blend of knowledge in interdisciplinary environmental sciences, making him well-positioned to contribute to academic advancement and sustainable policy development both locally and globally.

👨‍🏫 PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS

In his academic career, Dr. Eshetu has seamlessly integrated teaching, research, and leadership responsibilities. At Dilla University, he has served in multiple capacities including Head of the Department of Natural Resources Management, Research Communication and Dissemination Coordinator, and Thematic Research Leader. His role as Editor-in-Chief of a national academic journal further emphasizes his leadership in shaping the research landscape. In addition to his teaching duties, he has held visiting research positions at Adama Science and Technology University and Hawassa University, focusing on water resource use and environmental sustainability. His international engagement as a visiting scholar at Hunan University of Technology and Business in China showcases his global collaboration efforts. Moreover, his consultancy experience with ministries, NGOs, and private organizations illustrates his commitment to applying academic insights to real-world problems. His broad portfolio reflects a commitment to inclusive, interdisciplinary, and impact-driven scholarship across multiple domains.

🌱 CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS

Dr. Eshetu’s research primarily focuses on sustainable land resource management, rural livelihoods, and environmental governance. He has explored the intricate linkages between climate variability and food insecurity, agricultural transformation, and poverty reduction, emphasizing the need for integrated rural development approaches. His consulting expertise extends to Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA), agricultural policy analysis, and the transformation of vocational education in agriculture. He has led thematic research on natural resource management and ecotourism, offering valuable insights into how ecosystems can be sustainably harnessed for socio-economic development. Through his publications and academic engagement, he advocates for policy frameworks that support resilience in vulnerable communities. His interdisciplinary research merges ecological science, policy studies, and development theory, enabling practical interventions. With over twenty international peer-reviewed journal articles, Dr. Eshetu continues to bridge science and policy, championing innovations that address ecological challenges and contribute to Ethiopia’s and Africa’s broader development goals.

🏆 ACCOLADES AND RECOGNITION

Dr. Eshetu’s academic contributions have earned him several prestigious awards and honors. At Nanjing Agricultural University, he was twice recognized as an “Excellent International Student” for his stellar performance among international scholars. His outstanding work also earned him a Certificate of Expert Reviewer from the Academic Exchange Information Centre (AEIC), reflecting his role in advancing scholarly quality on a global stage. In Ethiopia, he received performance-based accolades at Alage ATVET College, celebrating his exceptional contribution to education and institutional excellence. As an active reviewer for international peer-reviewed journals, his critical assessments help uphold academic standards and integrity. His editorial leadership of the Ethiopian Journal of Environment and Development further affirms his influence in shaping the research landscape. These recognitions not only validate his academic and professional endeavors but also underscore the broader impact of his work in the environmental and agricultural sciences.

🔬 IMPACT AND INFLUENCE

Dr. Eshetu’s influence spans academia, government policy, and community development. His research informs policies on agricultural transformation, environmental governance, and rural livelihoods. Through collaborations with ministries such as the Ministry of Education and Ministry of Agriculture, he has contributed to impactful policy design and evaluation. His work supports Ethiopia’s broader development agenda, addressing issues of poverty, climate adaptation, and ecological sustainability. He champions science-based decision-making and advocates for integrating indigenous knowledge with modern environmental practices. His scholarly publications provide critical insight for stakeholders at national and international levels. Additionally, his involvement in training and mentoring young researchers ensures the continued development of expertise within the region. Dr. Eshetu’s influence lies in his ability to convert academic knowledge into actionable strategies, empowering communities and institutions to build resilience against environmental and socio-economic challenges.

đź“š LEGACY AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS

Looking ahead, Dr. Eshetu envisions further expanding his role in shaping sustainable development through research, policy advocacy, and mentorship. His legacy is already marked by his pivotal role in academic leadership, interdisciplinary research, and institutional capacity building. He aims to foster South-South and North-South research collaborations that bridge gaps in environmental science, rural development, and water management. As the Editor-in-Chief of a national journal, he continues to nurture emerging scholars and promote evidence-based discourse. Dr. Eshetu is also committed to translating research into policy reforms that address food security, climate resilience, and agricultural sustainability. His goal is to ensure that environmental management strategies are not only ecologically viable but also socioeconomically inclusive. By mentoring the next generation of environmental leaders and strengthening academic institutions, he aspires to leave a lasting legacy that transforms both the scholarly and practical dimensions of environmental governance in Ethiopia and beyond.

PUBLICATION

Title: Variation in Ecosystem Service Values in an Agroforestry Dominated Landscape in Ethiopia: Implications for Land Use and Conservation Policy

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Journal: Sustainability

Dr. Yohannes Yon – Environmental science – Best Researcher Award

Published on by Civil Engineering

Dr. Yohannes Yon - Environmental science - Best Researcher Award

Hawassa University - Ethiopia

AUTHOR PROFILE

GOOGLE SCHOLAR

🌱 SUMMARY OF ACADEMIC IDENTITY

Dr. Yohannes Yona Legide is a highly esteemed academic with a strong foundation in geography, environmental studies, and development policy. His academic journey began with a B.A. in Geography and Environmental Studies, followed by a Master’s in Regional and Local Development Studies, culminating in a Ph.D. in Policy and Development Studies from Hawassa University. His doctoral dissertation tackled the impact of climate change on agriculture-based livelihoods, a subject deeply relevant to Ethiopia’s rural transformation goals. Dr. Yohannes possesses extensive knowledge in sustainable development and climate-smart agriculture, backed by several national and international trainings. His diverse research experience spans climate adaptation, gender-based evaluation, and land management. He is known for blending research with practical community service and policy development, reflecting a dynamic scholar committed to social impact. With a passion for applied knowledge, he aims to empower rural communities through research-informed interventions, policy influence, and sustainability-focused education.

🎓 EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS

Dr. Yohannes Yona’s academic journey commenced with a deep curiosity about people, place, and the environment. After earning his B.A. in Geography and Environmental Studies from Dilla College, he developed a keen interest in regional development and environmental sustainability. This led him to pursue a Master’s degree at Addis Ababa University, where he specialized in Regional and Local Development Studies. His academic choices were not only rooted in intellectual curiosity but also guided by a genuine desire to serve marginalized and climate-affected communities. During his postgraduate years, he honed analytical and research skills and engaged in topics concerning environmental justice and rural transformation. His foundational years laid the groundwork for a lifetime commitment to research excellence, public service, and educational mentorship. These early pursuits shaped his approach to interdisciplinary knowledge, merging geography, development studies, and policy frameworks into a cohesive academic identity focused on resilience and impact.

🧭 PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS AND EXPERIENCE

Professionally, Dr. Yohannes has served across multiple academic and administrative roles, displaying exceptional versatility and leadership. Beginning as a high school teacher, he gradually ascended the academic ladder to become an Assistant Professor at Hawassa University. He led the Community Services Directorate, where he championed livelihood-enhancing initiatives, especially targeting women and youth. His university roles encompassed teaching, supervising graduate theses, developing curricula, and conducting multidisciplinary research. Additionally, he delivered leadership and entrepreneurship training, organized agricultural technology programs, and supported green economy initiatives. Outside academia, he worked as a Land and Environmental Information Officer and a Community Organization Officer, contributing to sustainable project planning and environmental awareness. Through these roles, he demonstrated profound skill in translating academic insight into practical programs. Whether addressing urban social issues or promoting poultry farming, his efforts reflect a commitment to inclusive development, policy relevance, and evidence-based community transformation.

🔬 CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS

Dr. Yohannes’s research contributions are extensive and interdisciplinary, with a primary focus on climate change adaptation, sustainable livelihoods, gender dynamics, and natural resource management. His doctoral research explored the impact of climate change on agriculture and climate-smart adaptations among Sidama smallholder farmers, a timely and critical subject for Ethiopia’s agrarian economy. He has published impactful papers in renowned journals such as Heliyon, Climate Services, and Journal of Environmental Studies and Sciences, addressing rainfall variability, indigenous climate practices, and access to climate information. His earlier work also spans educational effectiveness, non-farm diversification, and urban social challenges. Notably, he incorporates both quantitative and qualitative methods and frequently works on community-based research that informs local policy and institutional practices. His research is characterized by its applied orientation—he doesn’t merely generate knowledge but strives to ensure that research outcomes inform policy, build capacity, and directly support sustainable rural development.

🏅 ACCOLADES AND RECOGNITION

Throughout his career, Dr. Yohannes has been recognized for his impactful scholarship, community engagement, and training expertise. His selection for various national and international training programs—from the Raoul Wallenberg Institute in Sweden to SEARCA in the Philippines—demonstrates global acknowledgment of his potential and scholarly excellence. His research has earned publication in respected peer-reviewed journals, underlining his credibility and influence in climate and development discourse. As Director of Community Services at Hawassa University, he played a pivotal role in designing programs that supported women’s economic empowerment and green economy adoption. Furthermore, he has been entrusted with critical assignments such as gender audits and land management evaluations by academic and governmental institutions. These accolades reflect not only technical skill but also leadership, innovation, and unwavering commitment to social impact. His broad portfolio positions him as a role model and thought leader in Ethiopia’s academic and development landscape.

🌍 IMPACT AND INFLUENCE

Dr. Yohannes Yona’s work has significantly influenced both academic circles and grassroots communities. His efforts in climate-smart agriculture have guided policymakers and empowered farmers with adaptive strategies in the face of climate variability. Through university-based outreach, he has enhanced livelihoods by designing community programs in horticulture, poultry, and small-scale farming, particularly for marginalized women. His leadership in environmental awareness initiatives and gender-sensitive planning has reshaped how development projects are conceptualized in Sidama and beyond. His teaching and mentorship have shaped a generation of researchers and policy analysts who continue his legacy in academic and development spaces. Importantly, his multilingual proficiency, including English, Amharic, and Sidaamu Afoo, enables inclusive communication and broader impact. By bridging research, education, and community service, he has fostered a research culture that values relevance, equity, and sustainability—making him an academic deeply attuned to the needs and aspirations of the people he serves.

đź”® LEGACY AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS

Dr. Yohannes Yona stands at the intersection of academic excellence and grassroots transformation, poised to leave a lasting legacy in climate resilience, sustainable livelihoods, and policy innovation. His body of work sets a high standard for community-integrated research in Ethiopia and the broader Global South. Looking forward, he is likely to play a significant role in shaping climate policy frameworks, especially concerning agriculture-based livelihoods and gender-inclusive development. His plans to expand partnerships and participate in international consortia highlight his forward-thinking vision. He aspires to further mentor emerging scholars, promote evidence-based policymaking, and establish research centers focused on rural sustainability. With evolving climate challenges, Dr. Yohannes is expected to contribute cutting-edge insights that align local wisdom with global scientific frameworks. His future work will likely extend into regional policymaking, influencing how governments and institutions respond to socio-environmental changes with empathy, innovation, and inclusivity.

NOTABLE PUBLICATIONS

 

Title: Assessing challenges of non-farm livelihood diversification in Boricha Woreda, Sidama zone
Authors: Y. Yona, T. Mathewos
Journal: Journal of Development and Agricultural Economics, Vol. 9(4), pp. 87–96, 2017

Title: Analysis of rainfall and temperature variabilities in Sidama regional state, Ethiopia
Authors: Y. Yona, T. Matewos, G. Sime
Journal: Heliyon, Vol. 10(7), 2024

Title: Revitalizing indigenous practices employed by farmers to reduce agriculture’s vulnerability to climate change: a systematic review
Authors: Y.Y. Legide, G.S. Feyissa, T.M. Karo
Journal: Journal of Environmental Studies and Sciences, Vol. 14(2), pp. 400–414, 2024

Title: Schools in Sidama Zone, Ethiopia
Authors: E. Mandefro, M. Mulatu, T. Abebe, Y. Yona
Journal: Perception, Vol. 8(4), pp. 1–9, 2016

Title: School Leadership and English Language Teachers’ Approaches in Teaching English Language: The Case of Selected Schools in Sidama Zone, Southern Ethiopia
Authors: E. Mandefro, M. Mulatu, T. Abebe, Y. Yona
Journal: International Journal of Learning, Teaching and Educational Research, Vol. 15(10), 2016