On July 20, 2024, Hamelmalo Agricultural College (HAC) held its 17th graduation ceremony, celebrating the achievements of 350 graduates. Since its establishment, the college has produced 6,533 graduates who have significantly contributed to various developmental sectors, including the Ministry of Land, Water and Environment and the Ministry of Agriculture.
HAC offers seven-degree programs in Agronomy, Animal Science, Food Science and Technology, Horticultural Science, Land Resources and Environment, Plant Health, and Veterinary Science, along with five diploma programs. The graduation ceremony commenced with an opening address and welcoming speech by Dr. Haile Mhtsun, Executive Director of the National Higher Education and Research Institute. The event was attended by ministers, senior government officials, graduates, and guests.
During the ceremony, Minister of Agriculture Mr. Arefaine Berhe addressed the graduates, emphasizing the importance of applying both practical and theoretical knowledge in collaboration with experienced farmers to enhance harvest and productivity. He stated, “Our utmost aim is to ensure that nutritional food is provided to our people regularly and rationally.” Mr. Arefaine highlighted the critical role of the new graduates in increasing productivity efficiently and at minimal cost.
Professor Weldeamlak Araya, Dean of the Hamelmalo Agricultural College, elaborated on the achievements of the graduates, noting that of the 350 graduates, 181 earned degrees while 169 received diplomas. He praised the college’s contribution to producing specialists who play a vital role in improving Eritrea’s agricultural services. Notably, 59.29% of this year’s graduates were female, underscoring the college’s commitment to gender equality.
Professor Weldeamlak stressed the importance of transforming Eritrean agriculture from subsistence to commercial levels and from rain-fed to irrigated farming. He highlighted the need for highly qualified professionals in agricultural sciences and technology to achieve this transformation. The college has been instrumental in this direction, sending 20 members to countries like China, Russia, Hungary, India, and Kenya for further education, including 14 Ph.D. candidates and six MSc degree candidates.
The dean also emphasized the dual focus of Hamelmalo Agricultural College on teaching and research, stating, “HAC aims to make agricultural research integral to its mission.” He encouraged the graduates to embrace their responsibilities and contribute to the highest development in their fields, reminding them that graduation is not the final stage but a stepping stone to greater achievements.
A representative of the graduating class of 2024 expressed their commitment to applying their acquired knowledge in nation-building. He appreciated the efforts of the government and their families in providing quality education.
Among the notable graduates were Yosan Dawit and Naomi Tekeste, who graduated with Distinction and Great Distinction in Food Science and Technology and Agronomy, respectively. They shared their joy and pride in reaching this milestone and thanked their parents for their support. They pledged to apply their studies with full responsibility in their professional lives.
Beshir Mohammed Hagos, a Diploma graduate in Veterinary Science, described his graduation day as one of the most memorable days of his life. He acknowledged the hard work of three years and its meaningful impact on him and his friends. He expressed his dedication to serving his country with responsibility and devotion, stating, “This country is the trust of our heroes and heroines.”
Hamelmalo Agricultural College, located in the Anseba Region, 15 km north of Keren city, benefits from the Anseba River’s resources, enhancing its agricultural productivity. The college is also surrounded by historical sites such as O’na, Halhale, Gnbar Gonfolom, and the Keren Mountains, adding to its unique character and educational environment.
The ceremony was a testament to the continuous investment and effort of the Eritrean government in stabilizing food security and advancing agricultural services. The graduates are now poised to contribute to these efforts, bringing new energy and expertise to the nation’s agricultural sector. As they embark on their professional journeys, the support and education they received at HAC will be crucial in driving Eritrea’s agricultural development forward.
