By Brian Kiprono - Reporter
Ethiopia, July 9, 2026 - Ethiopia has launched a new forensic science scholarship for students from the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) region, honouring the organisation's Executive Secretary, Dr Workneh Gebeyehu, for his contribution to regional integration and public service.
The Dr Workneh Gebeyehu Scholarship Programme in Forensic Science, established by the Ethiopian Federal Police (EFP), will be offered through the Crime Investigation Academy at the Ethiopian Police University's Sandafa campus.
The initiative aims to train a new generation of forensic experts and law enforcement professionals from IGAD member states, strengthening criminal investigations and regional security cooperation.
In a statement on Thursday, the Ethiopian Federal Police said the scholarship recognises Dr Workneh's longstanding commitment to public service and his efforts to promote unity across the Horn of Africa.
"Cognisant of Dr Workneh's relentless commitment to regional integration and his service to the IGAD region, the Ethiopian Federal Police hereby establishes the Dr Workneh Gebeyehu Scholarship Programme in Forensic Science at the Crime Investigation Academy of the Ethiopian Police University at Sandafa campus, Ethiopia," the statement said.
The police said the programme seeks to nurture future professionals who reflect the values that have defined Dr Workneh's career.
"This scholarship seeks to cultivate future leaders who exemplify the values of public service, perseverance and innovation that have characterised Dr Workneh's distinguished career."
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According to the EFP, the scholarship will support talented students from IGAD member states pursuing careers in forensic science and law enforcement, equipping them with specialised skills to improve criminal investigations, promote scientific innovation and strengthen public institutions across the region.
Dr Workneh has served as IGAD Executive Secretary since 2019, leading regional efforts on peace, security, economic integration and cross-border cooperation among the bloc's eight member states.
Before joining IGAD, he served as Ethiopia's Minister of Foreign Affairs from 2016 to 2019, where he spearheaded the country's diplomatic engagement with regional and international partners. He also served as Minister of Transport between 2012 and 2016, overseeing major transport reforms and infrastructure development.
His public service career began in Ethiopia's Oromia Regional State, where he held several leadership positions in regional administration and the security sector.
The scholarship is expected to enhance regional capacity in forensic science while strengthening cooperation among law enforcement agencies across the IGAD region as countries seek to improve criminal justice systems and tackle increasingly complex cross-border crime.