Background of Department of Information Science

The Department of Information Science was established in 2003 E.C. under the Faculty of Natural and Computational Science. Today, it operates under the College of Informatics. In 2007 E.C., the department introduced an extension program offering a Bachelor of Science in Information Science. Later, in 2018 E.C., it expanded its academic offerings by launching a specialized Master of Science program in Data Science and Analytics, available in both regular and extension programs.

To support its academic programs, the department has set up four computer laboratories. Three of these labs are equipped with 30 computers each, all connected to the internet, while the fourth lab, designed for the Master’s program, has 15 computers. These facilities are used for practical training and coursework for both undergraduate and graduate students.

Since 2005 E.C., the department has been producing graduates with a Bachelor of Science in Information Science through its regular program, as well as through its extension program. Over the years, it has contributed highly skilled professionals to various national and international organizations. Many of its graduates are now employed at prominent institutions such as the Ethiopian Artificial Intelligence Institute, the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa, the National Archives and Library of Ethiopia, Ethio-telecom, Safaricom, the ICT Agency, Ethiopian Airlines, higher education institutions, university libraries, the Ethiopian Digital Library, data centers, banks, information agencies, INSA, and more.

The Department of Information Science continues to play a vital role in advancing education and innovation in the field of information science, equipping students with the skills needed to excel in a rapidly evolving digital world.

Mission, Vision and Objective of the Program

Our Vision

To be a leading center of excellence in Information Science, fostering a dynamic teaching, learning, and research environment that equips students with cutting-edge knowledge, skills, and practical experience to address evolving global challenges through innovation, technology, and industry-driven solutions.

Our Mission

 The Department of Information Science provides quality education, fosters research, and equips students with technical and analytical skills while advancing knowledge organization and industry collaboration through technology transfer and community engagement.

Program Objectives

  1. The objectives of Department of Information Science’ are:

    • To prepare learners with the knowledge, skills, and abilities to construct and deliver solutions, service, and process at the intersection of people, information and technology.
    • To deliver comprehensive and up-to-date academic programs in information science, data science, and related fields, ensuring students are well-versed in programming languages (e.g., C++, Java, Python), database systems (SQL, Oracle), and emerging technologies (AI, cloud computing).
    • To equip students with practical skills in web development (HTML, JavaScript, PHP), data visualization, data mining, and system administration, enabling them to excel in the digital economy.
    • Equip students with hands-on experience in programming languages (C++, Python, Java, Visual Basic), and digital library systems (Koha, Oliver).
    • To train professionals who can lead digital transformation efforts in libraries, archives, businesses, and government institutions through automation, cloud computing, and networking.
    • To align curriculum with industry needs, ensuring graduates are prepared for careers in data scientist and analyst, software development, information systems management, and digital transformation and more.
    • To train professionals in knowledge organization, information storage and retrieval, archives management, and digital library systems (e.g., Koha, Oliver), promoting efficient and secure information handling.
    • To establish partnerships with local and international organizations, providing students with opportunities for internships, research, and employment in sectors such as telecommunications, banking, education, and government.