Hawassa University Executive and Leadership Team

August, 2026

Leadership Overview

Hawassa University has 4 executives leading key functions including strategy, academic leadership, and committee oversight.

Driven by a commitment to academic excellence, Hawassa University focuses on advancing teaching, research, and community engagement to foster educational impact and outreach across Ethiopia and beyond.

Leadership Roles at Hawassa University

  • Chief Executive Officer & Director - Alemu Debiso
  • President - Ishak Abdulaziz
  • President - Ayano Beraso
  • President of GC Committee - Usman Meded
  • Alemu Debiso - Chief Executive Officer & Director

    Alemu Debiso, the Chief Executive Officer & Director at Hawassa University, directs the institution's overarching strategy and operational framework. Overseeing multiple departments, Debiso ensures the alignment of academic programs with the university's mission of teaching, research, and community engagement. This leadership role involves managing resources effectively to support over 32,000 students and nearly 11,000 staff members across nine colleges and three institutes. Alemu Debiso drives initiatives to enhance educational impact and outreach through national and international collaborations. The Chief Executive Officer & Director's focus remains on fostering an environment conducive to academic growth and institutional development, ensuring Hawassa University maintains its prominent position in Ethiopian higher education.

    Ishak Abdulaziz - President

    Ishak Abdulaziz, the President at Hawassa University, spearheads the academic vision and operational execution across the institution's diverse colleges and institutes. Abdulaziz guides the strategic development of undergraduate, graduate, and medical specialty programs, ensuring high standards of teaching and research. This executive oversees the integration of new academic initiatives and the enhancement of existing curricula to meet evolving educational needs. Ishak Abdulaziz fosters collaborations with national and international partners, expanding the university's research capabilities and community engagement efforts. The President's leadership ensures that Hawassa University effectively serves its student body of over 32,000 and supports the professional development of its academic staff, reinforcing the university's commitment to educational advancement.

    Ayano Beraso - President

    Ayano Beraso, the President at Hawassa University, champions the university's research agenda and its role in community development. Beraso directs efforts to foster innovation and scholarly inquiry across all academic disciplines, encouraging faculty and students to pursue impactful research projects. This leadership position involves strengthening ties with external organizations to facilitate knowledge transfer and address societal challenges. Ayano Beraso oversees the strategic allocation of resources to support cutting-edge research facilities and academic programs. The President's dedication to community engagement ensures that Hawassa University's contributions extend beyond the campus, benefiting the wider Ethiopian society and enhancing the institution's outreach.

    Usman Meded - President of GC Committee

    Usman Meded, the President of GC Committee at Hawassa University, leads the governance and strategic oversight functions of the institution. Meded ensures that the university's operations adhere to established policies and ethical standards, guiding the committee's deliberations on critical institutional matters. This role involves facilitating effective communication between the university administration, academic bodies, and external stakeholders. Usman Meded oversees the committee's review of academic programs and institutional development plans, ensuring alignment with Hawassa University's core mission. The President of GC Committee's focus is on maintaining robust governance structures that support the university's long-term sustainability and its commitment to providing quality education and research.

    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Hawassa University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Hawassa University?
    Hawassa University is led by Alemu Debiso (Chief Executive Officer & Director), along with executives such as Ishak Abdulaziz (President) and Ayano Beraso (President).
    Who is part of Hawassa University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Hawassa University includes leaders such as Alemu Debiso (Chief Executive Officer & Director), Ishak Abdulaziz (President), Ayano Beraso (President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Hawassa University have?
    Hawassa University has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Hawassa University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Hawassa University includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer & Director, President, President, President of GC Committee.