About Alemayan Class of 1985
75
Original students assigned to Alemaya in 1981 from across Ethiopia
The list of student assignment to the college was published in the main national newspaper Addis Zemen.
Our Legacy
The Alemayan Class of 1985 stands as a testament to dedication, excellence, and the transformative power of education. We came from diverse backgrounds, representing all 14 regions of our country, united by a shared vision of contributing to agricultural development and rural transformation.
140
Members of the Class of 1985 who completed their B.Sc. degrees at Alemaya
Explore our yearbook to see profiles, essays, and treasured photographs from our final year on campus. View Yearbook
The Alemayan Class of 1985 proudly traces its roots to
Addis Ababa University, College of Agriculture in Alemaya, today known as Haramaya University. Anchored in academic excellence and national service, our story mirrors the evolution of Ethiopian agricultural education.
History of the College
The College began in the 1950s as the Imperial Ethiopian College of Agriculture and Mechanical Arts, founded with support from the United States government and led by Oklahoma State University (OSU). Situated on 440 hectares near Lake Haramaya, the inaugural cohort of 14 students arrived in 1954, and 11 graduated in 1957 with B.Sc. degrees in General Agriculture. Emperor Haile Selassie I formally inaugurated the College on January 10, 1958.
As the institution expanded, new programs in Plant Sciences and Animal Science launched in 1960, Agricultural Engineering Technology in 1961, and Agricultural Economics and Business in 1962. Additional offerings followed—Home Economics (1967), the Science Teachers' Training Program (1978), Continuing Education (1980), and graduate studies in Plant Sciences, Animal Sciences, and Agricultural Economics (1980). Administrative leadership transitioned to Ethiopian hands in 1966, and the College became a chartered member of Haile Selassie I University (now Addis Ababa University) after OSU concluded its mandate in 1968.
Transformation into a University
A landmark moment arrived on May 27, 1985, when the College was elevated to Alemaya University of Agriculture following President Mengistu Haile Mariam's visit. Beginning in 1995/96, the University broadened its scope with programs in health sciences, law, business, economics, and more, ultimately establishing additional campuses in Harar and Chiro and emerging as a comprehensive national institution.
The evolution of Alemaya College of Agriculture to Haramaya University
- 1952 – Ethiopia and the USA sign an agreement to establish an agricultural college.
- 1954 – Imperial College of Agriculture and Mechanical Arts was founded at Alemaya.
- 1958 – Official inauguration by Emperor Haile Selassie; first graduates awarded degrees.
- 1967 – Oklahoma State University contract ends; the College becomes part of Addis Ababa University.
- 1985 – Upgraded to University of Agriculture, independent from AAU.
- 1996 – Expanded disciplines, renamed Alemaya University.
- 2006 – Renamed Haramaya University to reflect broader scope.
A Distinguished Cohort
The College was the first institution in Ethiopia to offer higher education in agriculture at both the Bachelor's and Master's levels. The Class of 1985 was the last batch of the College, representing the promise and impact of this pioneering academic community.
Today, members of our cohort serve in various capacities worldwide. Many have become accomplished academics and educators in leading universities and research institutions, including, but not limited to, the University of Bern in Switzerland, the Central University of Technology in South Africa, the University of Maryland in the United States, Addis Ababa University, and the Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research. Others hold influential positions in government offices and in major international organizations such as the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) in Nigeria, the International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI), the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the Finnish Development Agency, ActionAid International, as well as in prominent IT firms and health care organizations.
Earning a bachelor's degree is an exhilarating milestone that marks the culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and personal growth. The moment you receive that diploma, a wave of pride washes over you, symbolizing not only the knowledge and skills you've acquired but also the countless late nights, challenging assignments, and moments of perseverance that led you here. It’s a celebration of your achievements and a testament to your commitment to your education and future. The excitement is palpable as you envision the doors this degree will open, from new career opportunities to the chance to make a meaningful impact in your chosen field. Sharing this moment with friends, family, and fellow graduates amplifies the joy, creating lasting memories that will inspire you as you embark on the next chapter of your life.
We remain committed to upholding Alemaya's legacy, striving to be role models for those who follow and to leave a positive imprint wherever we serve. God bless Alemaya. God bless Ethiopia.
Alemayan Class of 1985
Our class began in 1981 with 75 students drawn from all 14 regions of the country, as announced in Addis Zemen newspaper. Additional classmates joined through advanced standing and special admissions in subsequent years. By the close of the 1984/85 academic year, 140 students completed their B.Sc. degrees; in total, roughly 400 graduates received Diploma, B.Sc., or M.Sc. credentials. We were the final graduates of the College before its transition to Alemaya University of Agriculture and proudly participated in the national resettlement campaign during our final year.
Location and Culture
The campus environment was enriched by the surrounding Lake Alemaya (now Lake Haramaya) and nearby villages such as Gende Boy, Gende Jaee, and Gende Terrae. The college town of Battae sat just outside the gates, with Alemaya town five kilometers away on the main highway. Dire Dawa and Harar provided vibrant nearby urban centers that further shaped student life and cultural exchange.
- Link to Haramaya town (formerly Alemaya)
- Link to Harar city
- Link to Dire Dawa City
Alemayan Class of 1985 – Honoring our past, shaping the future.
Our Departments
This is how departments interact and complement each other.
40th Anniversary Highlights
The Class of 1985 is gearing up for its 40th anniversary celebration—a chance to reconnect, honor shared memories, and spotlight our collective impact.
Planning is underway for special programs, archival showcases, and opportunities to support current students. Watch this space for registration details and contribution guidelines.
The Purpose of the Alemayans Class of 1985 Anniversary Celebration
The anniversary celebrations aim to honor the shared history, lifelong friendships, and academic journey of the 1985 graduating class of Alemaya College of Agriculture. The event serves as a unifying moment to reconnect classmates, celebrate personal and collective achievements, and reflect on the transformative education that shaped their professional and social paths. Beyond nostalgia, the celebration strengthens alumni bonds, promotes intergenerational linkages, and revitalizes the spirit of service that the class is known for. It also provides a platform to contribute to institutional development, support current students, and advance philanthropic initiatives benefiting communities and vulnerable groups. Overall, the anniversary is both a tribute to past accomplishments and a renewed commitment to legacy-building, collaboration, and continued impact in Ethiopia and beyond. In other words, the main goal of the reunion is to reconnect as classmates, roommates, and friends, and to relive the golden memories we share. This is a once-in-a-lifetime moment for us, coming together after 40 years. The task force is doing its best to make the reunion feel like a warm, intimate family gathering where every member feels seen, valued, and connected. The atmosphere will reflect that sense of belonging and celebration of our shared journey. It is exciting to have join the Alemayan family at this historical time.
Anniversary Organizing Committee and Taskforce
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The first attempt to reachout to all Alemayan 85 began around 2010 by Zeru Zegeye. Dozens of classmates were connected by email and exchanged a lot of information. The second succesful attempt used WhatsApp group created by Dereje Adugna, in October 2022, culminating in forming the registed association. At the Third general assembly (GA) of Alemayans 1985, on May 25, 2024 from 20:00 to 21:00 Ethiopian time (17:00 to 19:00 GMT).
Executive Committee:
- Kejele Gemtesa – Chairperson
- Solomon Abegaz – Vice Chairperson
- Dereje Adugna – Secretary
- Sisay Lemma –Treasurer
- Jemal Hassen – Accountant
- Zerihun Tadele – Public Relations Officer
- Teshome Afrassa – Member
- Melaku Gedil – Chairperson
- Mulu Ayele
- Assefa Teferi
- Yali Edossa
- Abdi Hassen
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The 40th anniversary Date: January 17–18, 2026.
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Venue: EIAR (Day 1) and Kayoland (Day 2).
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Steering Committe
Momentous Events
Conscription Notice
While we were in our third year, a shocking announcement was made by the government through the University’s administration. Some students were off campus because of the short break. On that fateful day, the entire student body gathered in front of the administrative building to fiercely oppose the military government’s attempt to forcibly conscript students from our college. Fear and uncertainty hung over us as we assembled, and when the military personnel sent to collect the selected student tried to address the crowd, his speech was instantly drowned out by loud, defiant protests that shattered his bravado. I particularly remember Aklilu Woldu, our senior in Animal Science, standing up to the officers with remarkable boldness and volume. Later, when we joked that he could have been killed, he simply replied, “I was ready to take any bullets fired at me if that’s what it took to save my fellow students.”
Read eyewithness account of students present in the meeting and the copy of cancellation notice of the conscription.
At that critical moment, Azage Tegegn (Dr.), then the Academic Dean of the college, stepped forward and rose to the occasion with extraordinary leadership. He reassured the students, saying, “This is an academic institution where students come to learn and develop the skills they need to contribute positively to their country. You are here on a mission to pursue your academic goals. No one will take that away from you. If necessary, I will resign. Now go, continue your studies, and we will resolve this issue with the officials.”
Gambella Rehabilitation
During our final year, 1,500 campaigners from the College joined the Gambella Rehabilitation Campaign, answering a national call to ease drought-related hardships. Their collective action underscored Alemaya’s commitment to service and national development.
Week by week journal of the Gambella resettlment campaign by Melaku. Click to read
Students with artist Hamelmal Abate and Kuku Sebsibe of Roha band, 1985
Job Assignment
Stories from the nationwide job assignment by Central Planning Office are being collected.
After retuning from the the two-month Gambella resettlement campaign, being assigned to the same place for job has been shocking, to say the least.
In unprecedented circumstances, a bunch of us were assigned to the Institute of Agricultural Research (IAR). Then IAR assigned us to the new and the established centers as follows:
- Pawe, Metekel: Kiros, Melaku, and Mussie
- Abobo, Gambella: Aderajew, Abdishekur, and Woldeyesus
- Asosa: Assefa, Mohammed, Mosisa
While the office and residences were being readied, the new staff were visiting various IAR centers. This picture was taken when the Pawe and Asosa staff met at Bako Research Center.
- Others were assigned to a relatively better research centers as follows:
- Adet: Alelign
- Melka Werer: Zerihun, Kidane, Endale Bekele, Gizaw
- Melkassa: Adugna, Dereje
- Sheno: Sisay L.
- Bako: Lema G, Solomon A
- Holeta: Elias
- Jimma: Kassahun Seyoum
- Sinana: Alemayehu Mamo
- IAR-HQ: Bayush
- Science and Technology Institue: Abeba B, Beyene, Girma Y
Essays & Reflections
The Saga of Good Old Days
by Aklilu Tadesse Dept. of Plant Sciences, 4th year
A nostalgic reflection on campus life, capturing the spirit, friendships, and memorable moments that defined our time at Alemayan. This essay takes readers on a journey through the good old days, celebrating the bonds formed and experiences shared by the Class of 1985.
Read MoreBe Grateful
by Solomon Abegaz Dept. of Animal Science, 4th year
An inspiring piece that reminds us to appreciate the opportunities, friendships, and lessons learned during our years at Alemayan. This reflection encourages gratitude for the transformative educational experience and the lasting impact it has had on our lives.
Read MoreGeneral Seminars as a means of knowledge sharing
by Solomon Abegaz Dept. of Animal Science, Sequel to 'Grateful'
Nowadays, for anyone interested in learning and acquiring knowledge, the resources and means to do so are beyond quantification. The reality forty years ago was quite different, and the means of learning were limited to what we shared among fellow students, classroom lectures, laboratory sessions, books (sometimes because of their limited numbers, we had to take turns to get them from the library), and general seminars.
Read MoreMemo of the Gambella resettlement campaign
by Gezahegn Alemu Dept. of Agricultural Engineering
Melaku's journal of the Gambella resettlement campaign
by Melaku Ayele Gedil Dept. of Plant Sciences
Dorm No 104
by Adugna Kebede Dept. of Agricultural Engineering
Most of my Alemayan ’85 friends, near and far, left a lasting mark on our lives during the four years we shared together. Every dorm room has a rich story to tell. Today, however, I want to pause and reflect on one place that became especially meaningful to me: Dorm Room 104.
Life’s turning points often arrive unexpectedly, without warning or consent. For a teenager experiencing separation from his family for the first time, one such turning point occurred the moment I stepped into Room 104.
Class Trivia & Fun Facts
- Our classmates hailed from all 14 administrative regions of Ethiopia, reflecting the nation’s diversity and unity.
- We were the final cohort to graduate under the College of Agriculture before its transition into Alemaya University of Agriculture in 1985.
- Namesakes were common: four classmates named Solomon, three each named Assefa, Alemayehu, and Lemma, and pairs of Ayele, Gashaw, Girma, Habtamu, Jemal, Million, Mohammed, Muktar, Tesfaye, and Yohannes.
- Departments collaborated on transformational research, from Farming Systems initiatives to grain storage, irrigation windmills, and livestock innovations.
- Campus life centered around Lake Alemaya, nearby villages like Gende Boy and Battae, and the vibrant cities of Harar and Dire Dawa.
Melaku's playlist of the 1980s greatest hits - opens YouTube in a new Tab
Ethiopian popular music during campus years
Greatest pop hits of the 80s - Michael Jackson, Disco, Madona, Boney M, The Ottawans, etc.
Mementos
Cooperation Cartoon
A humorous illustration capturing the spirit of collaboration and teamwork among classmates.
Debter (Exercise book)
A page from our study materials, preserving the academic traditions of our time at Alemayan.
Lecture notes taken on these
A nostalgic reminder of our study materials and academic journey during the 1980s.
Restaurant food menu of the time
A glimpse into the daily meals that nourished us during our years on campus.
Hyena Billboard in Harar city
A memorable campus landmark that became part of our shared memories and stories.
Meal Card used for student cafeteria
A cherished memento from campus dining, representing daily life and community at Alemayan.
Legehar train station in Dire Dawa
A significant figure or moment captured in this photograph from our campus days.
The Bachelor degree awarded to the graduates
An exhilarating milestone, a wave of pride washes over you, the countless late nights, challenging assignments, and moments of perseverance that led you here.
Simuni head and tail
Another treasured photograph capturing moments from our shared journey at Alemayan.
Ye Harer Beroch in Harar city
A cultural artifact or document reflecting the traditions and heritage of our time.
Arash and Bere (from the web)
A photograph capturing the essence of campus life and the bonds formed during our years together.
Congratulations
Happy 40th Anniversary - Nov 1985 to Nov 2025
Ye Addis Seferoch
Addis Ababa, Arada, Sheger, Adu Genet.
Invitation card for the 1985 graduation ceremony
Invitation card for the Commencement.
Charcoal powered iron
The laundary service at the dormitory used this iron (Kawya).
Gallery & Archives
Yearbook & Records
The Alemayan 1985 Yearbook preserves profiles, essays, and treasured photographs from our final year on campus. The historic Addis Zemen assignment list that first announced our cohort is also being curated for online access. These archives remind us of the friendships, academic milestones, and ambitions that brought us together.
New: Image Gallery
Iconic Moments
Alem85 group pics
A memorable group photo capturing the spirit and unity of the Class of 1985.
Alem85 in Cafeteria
Sharing meals and conversations in the cafeteria, building lifelong friendships.
Alem85 in the library
Dedicated study sessions in the library, pursuing knowledge and excellence.
Alem85 games
Competitive spirit and camaraderie on display during athletic events.
The Soccer Champions 1985
Victory and celebration as champions of the 1985 soccer tournament.
Alem85 field
Memories made on the field, where teamwork and determination were forged.
Plant Science football team
Memories made on the field, where teamwork and determination were forged.