Habtamu Atlaw

Dean, College of Social Sciences and Humanities

Background

The College of Social Sciences and Humanities (CSSH) is one of the six colleges established at Salale University. It was officially founded in 2018 and is located at the university’s main campus, General Tadesse Biru Campus. Since its inception, the college has been committed to fostering academic excellence, research, and community engagement in the fields of social sciences and humanities.

When CSSH was first launched, it started with only three departments. However, recognizing the growing demand for diversified academic programs and the need to address societal challenges through interdisciplinary studies, the college expanded its capacity by introducing additional departments. Today, CSSH proudly offers nine departments and one specialized unit, providing a broad spectrum of undergraduate and postgraduate programs aimed at equipping students with critical knowledge and practical skills.

As a key academic unit of Salale University, CSSH plays a crucial role in advancing teaching, research, and community service. The college emphasizes:

• High-quality education that nurtures critical thinking, creativity, and analytical skills.
• Research-driven learning that addresses contemporary social, economic, and environmental challenges.
• Community engagement and outreach programs that contribute to local and national development.

A defining characteristic of CSSH is its direct affiliation with Salale University’s Center of Excellence in Culture and Tourism Development. This unique connection enables the college to actively engage in the study, preservation, and promotion of indigenous knowledge, cultural heritage, and tourism development. Through this partnership, CSSH aims to:

• Promote cultural research and documentation.
• Support sustainable tourism initiatives.
• Enhance heritage conservation and indigenous knowledge preservation.

By continuously expanding its academic programs and strengthening its research and community engagement efforts, CSSH remains dedicated to producing well-rounded graduates who contribute meaningfully to national and global development.