Mr. Tibebu Merde has successfully defended his PhD dissertation in specialization Mechanical Design under the Faculty of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering at Bahir Dar Institute of Technology, Bahir Dar University (BiT-BDU). His research, titled “Optimizing Soft Body Armor Impact Resistance and Flexibility Using STF Impregnated Glass Fabric Composites,” was conducted under the supervision of Dr. Ermias G/Kidan from the University of Texas at Tyler, USA, and Dr. Addisu Negash from BiT-BDU.

PhD dissertation defense by Mr. Fetene Teshome on September 08/2025.

The Faculty of mechanical and industrial engineering proudly hosted a heartfelt Thanks and Welfare Program on Friday, July 25, 2025, to honor Professor D.K.N. Rao for his exceptional service, dedication, and invaluable contributions to our academic community. The event was marked by warm speeches, reflections, and expressions of gratitude from our faculty dean and colleagues. As a symbol of appreciation and cultural respect, the faculty presented Professor Rao with traditional Ethiopian attire — a Gabi and Fota — celebrating the bond he has built with our institution and culture. We sincerely thank everyone who participated and helped make the occasion a memorable tribute to Professor Rao’s lasting legacy.