Climate change represents one of the most pressing global challenges of the 21st century, threatening ecosystems, economies, and societies at unprecedented scales. Its impacts are particularly severe in developing countries, where dependence on natural resources, limited adaptive capacity, and rapid population growth converge to heighten vulnerability. Ethiopia is among the countries most exposed to climate-related risks, including recurrent droughts, erratic rainfall, floods, land degradation, biodiversity loss, and food insecurity. These phenomena not only endanger livelihoods but also exacerbate public health crises, undermine economic growth, and perpetuate cycles of poverty, particularly in rural communities that depend on rain-fed agriculture and fragile ecosystems.
Against this backdrop, higher education and research institutions are expected to play a central role in generating evidence, fostering innovation, and informing policy responses. Jimma University, as one of Ethiopia’s premier research universities, has recognized this responsibility and has established the Climate Change and Environment Research Center (CCERC) as a dedicated platform for research, training, and community engagement. The establishment of the CCERC reflects Jimma University’s commitment to advancing the Ethiopian Climate Resilient Green Economy (CRGE) strategy and contributing to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially those related to climate action, sustainable ecosystems, health, and energy.
The establishment of CCERC is also timely given the increasing recognition of the need for multidisciplinary approaches to climate change. Addressing the interconnected challenges of climate, environment, and human development requires collaboration across fields such as Environment, agriculture, health, technology, economics, and social sciences. CCERC is designed to serve as a nexus for such interdisciplinary research, bringing together researchers, students, policymakers, and community stakeholders. Its work will not only produce scientific outputs but also translate these into practical, community-based solutions that enhance resilience and sustainability.
This strategic plan sets the direction for CCERC to 2030. It articulates the vision, mission, and values that will guide the Center, and it outlines key objectives, priorities, and action plans. It also provides a governance framework, an implementation plan, and mechanisms for monitoring, evaluation, and learning. By setting clear targets and strategies, this plan seeks to position CCERC as a leading center of excellence in climate change and environmental research, not only in Ethiopia but also in the wider African region.
Ultimately, the center calls a national and international partners, government institutions, donor agencies, and local communities to join Jimma University in building a resilient, sustainable, and climate-smart future for Ethiopia and beyond.
Climate Change and Environment Research Center |