This International Women’s Day, celebrated under the theme “GiveToGain,” we honor the remarkable journey of Dr. Bosena Tegegne, an Associate Professor in Agricultural Economics. Through her dedication and contributions, she has inspired change, empowered communities, and paved the way for a brighter future in agriculture.
Childhood dream
As a child, Dr. Bosena dreamed of becoming a mathematics teacher. However, during her undergraduate studies, a research methods instructor recognized her potential and encouraged her to pursue a career in research. This pivotal moment sparked her interest in agricultural research, leading her to join the Amhara Region Agricultural Research Institute and later serve as an instructor and researcher at Haramaya and Bahir Dar Universities.
A passion for research
Dr. Bosena’s work as a researcher has allowed her to engage deeply with the agricultural sector, understanding its challenges and opportunities from various perspectives. One of her proudest accomplishments was her MSc. thesis on the cotton value chain in Ethiopia, which addressed key challenges faced by cotton producers and led to impactful government interventions. Her PhD dissertation further underscored her dedication, focusing on Ethiopia’s bilateral economic relationships with a key partner country.
Overcoming challenges
Dr. Bosena’s journey has not been without obstacles. As a woman in a demanding profession, she faced challenges balancing her responsibilities as a mother with her research commitments. During her early years, societal norms and family expectations posed additional hurdles; her family initially lacked awareness of the value of education, and she had to overcome personal losses, including the passing of her mother during her university years. Despite these difficulties, Dr. Bosena’s self-confidence and determination enabled her to persevere and excel in her career.
Advice for future generations
Dr. Bosena offers valuable advice to young women aspiring to pursue careers in research:
- Cultivate self-confidence and resilience.
- Seize opportunities for capacity building and continuous learning.
- Stay curious and open to acquiring new knowledge.
- Never give up, even when faced with challenges from various directions.
To decision-makers, she emphasizes the importance of creating a supportive environment for female researchers by providing opportunities, fostering capacity building, and challenging harmful social norms that undermine women’s potential.
We share Dr. Bosena Tegegne’s journey since it exemplifies how passion, perseverance, and a commitment to #GiveToGain can create meaningful change in society. Her work continues to inspire others to pursue careers in research, champion gender equality, and contribute to building a brighter future for all.
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