WSFAAS-2026

Dr. Berihun Afera serves as an Associate Professor in the College of Veterinary Science at Mekelle University, Ethiopia. His academic credentials include a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) and a Master of Science in Tropical Veterinary Epidemiology; both earned from Addis Ababa University. He is presently pursuing a PhD in Preventive Veterinary Sciences at the Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute in China. An active researcher, Dr. Berihun has authored more than 40 publications in peer-reviewed journals and has presented his work at numerous national and international conferences. His professional service includes significant leadership roles at Mekelle University, such as Director of Technology Transfer and University-Industry Linkage (2019-2023) and team leader for the epidemiology and research methods unit. A dedicated advocate for the One Health approach, Dr. Berihun served as the focal person for the One Health Central and Eastern Africa (OHCEA) project from 2010 to 2019. In this capacity, he was responsible for planning, executing, and coordinating a wide range of initiatives. Recognized as a top performer within the network, he is known for his commitment, energy, and dedication to teamwork and transparency. His contributions include developing key One Health materials—such as student clubs, demonstration sites, and risk analysis frameworks—and contributing to the historical documentation of OHCEA in the AFROHUN Book. From 2010 to 2019, he also provided One Health training to students and professionals at various career stages. Dr. Berihun's current professional focus lies in researching zoonotic and transboundary diseases, with the goal of enhancing outbreak investigation and response capabilities to control diseases impacting both animal and human health.