(BDU, October 17, 2026) The Nile Executive Leadership Academy (NELA) of Bahir Dar University has officially launched its fifth cohort of leadership training, marking another milestone in the University’s commitment to developing effective leaders and strengthening institutional leadership capacity.

The opening ceremony was held on October 17, 2026, at the Ethiopian Institute of Textile and Fashion Technology (EiTEX), bringing together university leaders, Academy officials, alumni, and newly admitted trainees to mark the beginning of the latest training cycle.

Speaking at the ceremony, Mr. Girmaw Ashebir, a graduate of NELA’s third cohort and Director of Internal Relations and Communication at Bahir Dar University, presented an overview of the Academy’s establishment, organizational structure, achievements, and growing institutional significance. He explained that NELA was established to address leadership development gaps by providing professional training tailored to the needs of leaders in higher education and other institutions.

Mr. Girmaw highlighted the contributions of NELA graduates who currently serve as directors, deans, department heads, and other institutional leaders. He also noted the Academy’s efforts to strengthen its training capacity by engaging qualified alumni as adjunct instructors. The growing interest in the program, including participation by senior university officials and applicants from outside the University who are willing to finance their own studies, further demonstrates the Academy’s expanding reach and relevance.

The ceremony also featured testimonial presentations by selected graduates of previous NELA cohorts: Mr. Melkamu Teshome, Mr. Workineh Genet, Dr. Meaza Syoum, and Mr. Daniel Mekete. They shared their experiences and reflections on the Academy’s leadership philosophy, training process, practical benefits, and institutional contribution. Their testimonies highlighted the value of NELA’s leadership development approach in strengthening professional competencies and preparing graduates to undertake leadership responsibilities effectively within their respective institutions.

The opening ceremony was officially inaugurated by Professor Dessalegn Ejigu, Vice President for Academic Affairs at Bahir Dar University. In his opening remarks, Professor Dessalegn reaffirmed the University’s commitment to strengthening the Academy and expanding its contribution to leadership development. Drawing on his experience as a former participant in the Galileo Leadership Program, he emphasized the importance of sustained investment in leadership training.

Professor Dessalegn further underscored the importance of capable and visionary leadership as Bahir Dar University advances toward greater institutional autonomy. He noted that NELA has an important role to play in addressing leadership gaps, cultivating talent, and preparing leaders capable of guiding institutional transformation and contributing to the development of the University, the Amhara Region, and Ethiopia as a whole.

The fifth cohort includes Dr. Sisay Geremaw, Vice President for Administration and Development at Bahir Dar University, who has joined the program as a trainee. His participation, alongside growing interest from applicants beyond the University, reflects the Academy’s relevance to leadership development across institutional boundaries.

As part of the opening program, Dr. Alemtsihay Mekonnen, Director of Administration and Business Development at NELA, presented an overview of the fifth cohort’s curriculum, training methodology, learning arrangements, and expectations for trainees and instructors. She explained that the postgraduate diploma program comprises a bridging course and six modules. As an in-service training program, it is designed to accommodate participants’ professional responsibilities while maintaining the expected academic and training standards.

In a session dedicated to exploring trainees’ expectations and clarifying the Academy’s requirements, Professor Yeshigeta Gelaw, Chief Executive Director of NELA, emphasized the importance of discipline, commitment, accountability, and continuous improvement. He explained that the Academy applies rigorous selection criteria and maintains high expectations throughout the training process.

Professor Yeshigeta stressed that admission alone does not guarantee graduation. Participants are expected to demonstrate punctuality, dedication, responsibility, and the ability to fulfil assigned tasks. He also emphasized the importance of developing essential leadership qualities and translating the knowledge and skills acquired through the program into improved professional conduct and institutional performance. He welcomed the new trainees and responded to their questions regarding the training process and expectations.

The postgraduate diploma program brings together Bahir Dar University professors, experienced former leaders, and national and international experts to deliver leadership education that combines academic knowledge with practical experience. Through its structured curriculum and emphasis on professional discipline, the Academy seeks to develop leaders equipped to navigate institutional challenges, make informed decisions, and drive meaningful organizational change.

The launch of Cohort V reinforces Bahir Dar University’s continued investment in leadership development, knowledge transfer, and institutional transformation. Through NELA, the University aims to strengthen leadership capacity, improve organizational effectiveness, and prepare leaders who can make meaningful contributions to higher education, public institutions, and national development.

Nile Executive Leadership Academy (NELA)
Bahir Dar University | Bahir Dar, Ethiopia