Students enrolled in the SPIBES (Sustainable Practices in Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services) MSc program at Addis Ababa University undertook an educational field excursion to the southern regions of Ethiopia. This five-day journey formed part of the Internship & Seminar (SPBE 6421) course, designed to provide students with practical exposure to biodiversity conservation and ecosystem service management in real-world contexts.

The excursion offered a unique opportunity for immersive, hands-on learning. Students visited ecologically significant sites, including the Tropical Riverine Forests of Nech Sar National Park, as well as the Dry Afromontane Forests and Terminalia woodlands located between Arba Minch and Chencha in the Gamo Zone. Arba Minch, with its striking landscapes between Lake Abaya and Lake Chamo at 1,285 meters above sea level, served as a gateway to the diverse topography of the region. The journey continued into the Chencha highlands, where altitudes exceeded 2,700 meters and revealed the dynamic ecological complexity of the East African Rift Valley system.

Throughout the trip, students explored various ecological zones and topographical features, including rugged terrains, plateaus, and deeply incised valleys. They were guided by respected academics, including ecologist Dr. Bikila Workineh, who provided field lectures on ecosystem dynamics and ecological data collection in Nech Sar’s riverine woodlands. “Understanding the intricate relationships within these ecosystems is vital for effective conservation efforts,” Dr. Bikila noted, emphasizing the importance of field-based scientific observation and sampling techniques.

In addition to ecological research, students engaged with the Gamo community in Chencha, observing traditional weaving practices and sustainable local customs. These cultural interactions reinforced the concept that biodiversity conservation and cultural heritage can coexist and thrive through integrated, sustainable practices.

The academic component of the fieldwork was further enriched by Prof. Sebsebe Demisew, a taxonomist who led practical sessions on floristic composition, specimen collection, and labeling. These exercises equipped students with essential field skills and a deeper appreciation for Ethiopia’s botanical richness.

Despite the challenges inherent in travel and field research, students expressed overwhelmingly positive feedback. Many highlighted the transformative nature of the experience in connecting academic theory to practical conservation challenges. “The diverse ecosystems we explored taught us about the fragility and interconnectedness of nature,” one student reflected.

Upon returning to Addis Ababa, students began preparing detailed presentations based on their findings and reflections. These presentations are expected to provide valuable insights into the region’s ecological diversity and underscore the importance of experiential learning in environmental education.

Prof. Mekuria Argaw, Executive Director of the Horn of Africa Regional Environment Center and Network (HoAREC&N), emphasized the value of such field excursions:

“This type of exposure is critical in shaping the next generation of environmental leaders. We are committed to ensuring these opportunities continue in the future.”

The excursion was made possible with support from the German government’s International Climate Initiative (IKI), in collaboration with the University of Bonn, the Center for Development Research (ZEF), and other consortium partners. Mr. Mekonnen Biru, CABES Project Coordinator at HoAREC&N–AAU, confirmed the program’s success and affirmed its continuity, stating that the experience had successfully bridged the gap between academic theory and field-based application.

This CABES-East Africa field excursion stands as a testament to the power of integrated education, community engagement, and environmental stewardship in cultivating informed, capable, and passionate conservation professionals.