Introduction
While Borana University is one of the leading institutions of higher institution in Ethiopia, the education provided in this institution not only contributes to the country’s democratic system, good governance, and development, but also provides training at all levels; Producing citizens who are knowledgeable, skilled, and ethically committed to accelerating the development of the country is crucial to the success of the growth and transformation plan.Borana University is one of the universities established with the government’s plan to expand access to higher education and increase annual enrollment. In order to make the teaching and learning process more effective, efforts are being made to strengthen human resources and organize materials. Accordingly, it is an institution that is carrying out its teaching and learning work, realizing that it is important and crucial to produce the skilled human resources needed in the country in large quantities and with quality.In addition, teaching, research, and community service are the focus point of the university and the college as well. regarding this, under our college, post graduate courses in various majors have been opened and taught in one department.
Mission and Vision of the Borana University;
MissionBorana University aims to provide quality and relevant education through a variety of options, to produce problem-solving and competitive graduates who are equipped with knowledge, skills and ethics; to conduct research that solves the problems of the local community and even the country; and to implement appropriate community participation.Vision To be a leading higher education institution in East Africa by 2040 in the fields of pastoralism and pastoral ecology; governance and indigenous democracy; and cultural studies and research.
Objective
To graduate problem-solving and competitive graduates in Various field of Applied and the students are equipped with knowledge, skills, and ethics, through various undergraduate fields. Values ü Providing quality and relevant education; Ensuring quality education by providing the necessary quality education resources, support and monitoring is a priority.ü Equity and accessibility; Providing education to all citizens in an equitable manner without discrimination is a primary focus.ü Ensuring academic freedom with accountability; Creating free and fair academic arbitration within the existing academic policies and laws, enabling academic professionals to carry out their work without any interference and with accountability.ü Professional ethics; Since the teaching profession is a noble one, academics should adhere to the ethics of the profession and develop their profession with sufficient knowledge and impart their knowledge to their students with love and diligence. ü Providing knowledge to indigenous knowledge; Making extensive efforts to utilize indigenous knowledge by integrating it with modern technologyü Paying attention to nature and the environment; Teaching and learning about nature and the environment; continuously working on work that focuses on their care and protection in the process of learning and community development.ü Deterring and combating corruption; Establishing a consistent and strong system to prevent corruption and malpractice in all sectors and creating a university community that detests this will be an ongoing task.ü Effective resource allocation; Striving to develop a culture of using the limited resources allocated to the institution in an appropriate manner and measuring it by results.ü Efficient and quality service; The university works diligently to ensure good governance, democratic practices, transparency, participation, accountability, and equal opportunities for all.ü Protecting diversity; The institution believes that diversity is a source of strength and makes unremitting efforts to strengthen it.ü Creative Culture; The university will work hard to foster a creative culture by adopting, adapting, and transferring technology.ü Involvement; The university will work hard to ensure that all stakeholders play their roles, as it seeks everyone’s participation.ü Sense of Ownership; It works to develop a sense of ownership by accepting joint responsibility for the results achieved and for the mistakes that occur in all areas of work.
Message of the Dean
Dear Members of the Communities;
It is my pleasure and honor to share with you the purpose, vision, and impact of the College of Social Sciences and Humanities.
In a world of rapid technological advancement, economic complexity, and global interdependence, the need to understand human behavior, culture, history, Literature, and communication has never been more urgent. Our college stands at the heart of these vital inquiries. We are dedicated to the study of society, the exploration of the human experience, and the pursuit of knowledge that enhances our collective understanding and wellbeing.
Our disciplines including Social Anthropology, psychology, history, Geography and Environmental Studies, English language and literature, Afan Oromo, literature and Communication Civics and Ethical Studies, help us make sense of the world and our place in it. Through research and teaching, we engage with the most pressing challenges of our time: inequality, climate change, migration, conflict, identity, Indigenous knowledge and social justice.
Our graduates go on to become thoughtful leaders, educators, policy makers, writers, community organizers, diplomats, and innovators. They are equipped not only with practical skills such as critical thinking, communication, and analysis, but also with a deep ethical awareness and a commitment to serving the public good. We believe that a strong, inclusive society depends on understanding its people their stories, values, dreams, and struggles. At the College of Social Sciences and Humanities, we strive every day to be a bridge between the university and society, producing knowledge that matters and educating citizens who care.
Thank you for supporting our mission and for recognizing the essential role the social sciences and humanities play in shaping a better future.
Sincerely,
Gemeda Tulu Huluka
Dean, College of Social Sciences and Humanities
Borana University
About College
The Social Sciences and Humanities College (CSSH) is one of the colleges in Borana University which were formed almost about a Five year ago when the University structured its academic and administrative departments with respect to the new efficient and effective working systems that the government has set out. It has been offering degree programs since teaching commenced at the University in September, 2013 E.C. The purpose of the College was to alleviate the national manpower shortage in the fields of social sciences and humanities by providing a broadly-based degree that would equip graduates to respond constructively and flexibly to the developing requirements of the public and private sectors.
Until now, the departments of the college are six discipline-based departments and One coordinate unit. They are; Afan Oromo, literature and Communication, English language and Literature, Geography and Environmental studies, Civics and Ethical Studies, Social Anthropology, Psychology, and History and Heritage management is as Coordination unit. However, since degrees in these areas were still available within the College, it retained its designation as the College of Social Sciences and Humanities.
The College offers four-year programs leading to the degrees of Bachelor of Arts (BA). It also offers Master’s programs under Geography and Environmental studies, specialization, “MSc in disaster risk management”. The major aim of the degree programs is to equip the graduate with an awareness of society and its problems and of the ways in which he/she can help to solve these. The programs provide orientations that will enable the graduate to be innovative and provide intelligent leadership in a rapidly changing society.
There are approximately 260 students in the College. Of social science and humanities, about 18% per cent are females. In addition, the college caters for approximately 80 students who are registered for courses through Weekend Education. In 2024/2025 the College had awarded more than 32 degrees from those 2 is female students.
An overview of a College of Social Sciences and Humanities (CSSH) at Borana university, typically covers its academic focus, departments, programs, and opportunities.
The College of Social Sciences and Humanities focuses on understanding human behavior, culture, society, and political and economic systems. It blends analytical, interpretive, and critical thinking skills to examine complex social issues from local and global perspectives.
CSSH generally includes a broad range of departments such as:
CSSH offers degrees at multiple levels:
Graduates from CSSH programs pursue careers in:
CSSH often houses research centers, policy institutes, and community engagement initiatives focusing on contemporary societal issues like:
The Organizational structure of a College of Social Sciences and Humanities (CSSH) within a Borana University typically follows a hierarchical and departmental framework designed to support academic, administrative, and research activities.
These are the top administrators responsible for overseeing the entire college:
I/ College Academic Council (AC).
A College-level Academic Council typically serves as the governing body responsible for overseeing academic matters within a college of social science and humanities Its responsibilities usually include:
II/ Dean
Each department operates semi-autonomously and focuses on a specific discipline. Headed by:
Examples of departments:
CSSH may have committees that shape policy and governance:
University V/P Academic research, technology and community engagement ↓University Academic Director ↓College Dean ↓Department Chairs ↓Students
Facilities and Services
The facilities and services of a College of Social Science and Humanities (CSSH) typically support academic, research, and student life needs. The facilities and services in CSSH is:
Accountability
The College of Social Sciences and Humanities of Borana University is accountable for several key areas: producing qualified graduates, conducting research, engaging in community service, and fostering an inclusive environment. They are also responsible for delivering high-quality education, addressing local and national problems through research, and offering community service trainings. The more detailed accountability:
The college aims to produce highly skilled and knowledgeable graduates who can contribute to the country in various professions.
They are committed to providing high-quality education to all students, without discrimination.
They utilize student-centered learning approaches and innovative curricula to encourage students to apply their knowledge beyond the classroom, promoting critical thinking, effective communication, and problem-solving skills.
They are dedicated to conducting research in various thematic areas, such as language, culture, education, social justice, and sustainable development.
Their research efforts are focused on finding solutions to problems faced by local communities and broader national issues.
They deliver research-led learning, providing students with practical knowledge and fostering multicultural competence.
Professionals
Professionals from a College of Social Sciences and Humanities are individuals who work in disciplines related to the study of human behavior, society, culture, and the humanities. These professionals can include researchers, teachers, policymakers, community organizers, and various other roles depending on their specialization.
These individuals conduct research on topics related to social sciences and humanities, contributing to academic knowledge and understanding of society.
They teach at various levels, from undergraduate to postgraduate, imparting knowledge and skills in their respective fields to future generations.
They use social science research and insights to inform policy decisions, aiming to improve society and address social issues.
They work to empower communities, promote social change, and address local needs based on social science principles.
They study human behavior, mental processes, and emotional development, often working in counseling, research, or other related fields.
They study human societies, cultures, and their development, often conducting fieldwork and research in different communities.
They study language, its structure, and its use in society, often working in teaching, research, or translation.
They study past events and societies, providing insights into the present and future.
They play a crucial role in disseminating information and shaping public opinion, often using social science research to understand media consumption and public discourse.
They analyze and interpret literature, contributing to cultural understanding and appreciation.
Key Areas of Study within a College of Social Sciences and Humanities:
Research Approach
The research approach of a College of Social Sciences and Humanities (CSSH) typically emphasizes interdisciplinary, critical, and human-centered methodologies.
Examples of Common Research Themes:
Research Thematic Area
The thematic research areas of a College of Social Sciences and Humanities (CSSH) can vary by institution, but generally they focus on understanding human behavior, societies, cultures, and global issues through interdisciplinary approaches. Here are common thematic research areas found in most CSSH programs:
Motto·
Rooted Education, Research and Engagement for excellence!