The Department of Water Resource Engineering in collaboration with School of Civil Engineering & Architecture organized a panel discussion titled `The importance of water resource utilization and access to the sea for Ethiopia`s development ‘.

In his welcoming speech, Dr. Mesfin Benti, Dean of School of Civil Engineering & Architecture noted that the theme of World Water Day for this year is ` water for peace which is compliant with Ethiopia’s stand on water resource utilization. Dr. Mesfin further stated that as a nation we need to create harmony on the fair and sustainable use of water laying the foundations for comprehensive development, offering pathways to prosperity, resilience, and sustainability.

Dr. Teshome Abdo, Vice President for Academic Affairs, made opening speech. Dr. Teshome underscored that the event serves as a pivotal platform to explore the critical role of water resources in Ethiopia`s progress and the significance of access to the seas for the nation's development. Dr. Teshome opined that Ethiopia’s journey towards harnessing its water potential, exemplified by the GERD, stands as a testament to Ethiopia’s commitment to utilizing these valuable resources for the betterment of our people and the region. He further stated that the theme of today’s panel discussion underscores the interconnectedness of water resources utilization and access to the sea in shaping Ethiopia’s development trajectory.

Dr. Michael Mehari, from the Ministry of Water and Energy presented a paper titled ‘Status and future direction of water resources development’ in which he highlighted the trajectory of the ministry in building the capacity of the nation towards utilizing its water resources. Professor Mekonen Ayana’s presentation was titled, ‘GERD, Beyond Hydropower: Symbolizing for Sovereignty, National Security, and Regional Integration’ Professor Mekonnen stressed the need to embolden the sense of patriotism among all Ethiopians in defending Ethiopia’s legitimate right to utilize its water resources. Similarly, Dr Gashaw Ayferam, from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, presented a paper titled ‘Historical background and future perspective of Ethiopia’s access to sea’.