Dr. Yohannes Girma | Agricultural economics | Best Researcher Award
Dr. Yohannes Girma Asefa is an agricultural economist and researcher specializing in agricultural policy, technology adoption, risk analysis, and value chain development. He has published widely in peer-reviewed journals, authored a book on Ethiopian agricultural policies, and received recognition as a Best Researcher. Currently affiliated with Injibara University, he combines academic excellence with practical field engagement, supporting farmers through research, training, and community service. His work reflects a commitment to advancing sustainable agriculture, improving market access, and shaping informed agricultural policies in Ethiopia.
Yohannes Girma Asefa holds a strong academic foundation in agricultural sciences and economics. He completed his undergraduate studies in agricultural economics, where he graduated with distinction. He then pursued a master’s degree in agricultural information and communication management, further strengthening his knowledge in the intersection of agriculture and data-driven decision-making. Building on this, he earned a PhD in agricultural economics with outstanding academic performance, demonstrating both depth and expertise in the field.
Experience
Yohannes has served in key academic and leadership roles, including heading a university department where he successfully managed academic programs and administrative responsibilities. At Injibara University, he has been actively engaged in teaching, research, and project leadership. His research experience covers diverse areas including meta-analysis, macroeconomics, production economics, farm management, agricultural marketing, value chains, and agricultural information systems. He has also coordinated and implemented multiple research projects in collaboration with academic and institutional partners.
Awards and Recognition
Yohannes has been recognized for his outstanding contributions to agricultural research and academic excellence. His dedication and impactful research earned him the Best Researcher Award at Agriawards, highlighting his commitment to advancing agricultural knowledge and practice.
Skills and Expertise
Yohannes brings a versatile skill set to his professional and academic work. He is fluent in Amharic, Oromic, and English, and is proficient in both qualitative and quantitative data analysis. His technical expertise includes working with research and statistical software such as SPSS, STATA, Python, EViews, and R. Beyond technical competence, he has strong communication, managerial, and organizational skills. He is experienced in business plan development, team leadership, and fieldwork in agriculture. His core values of honesty, loyalty, and integrity guide his professional approach, while his adaptability and multitasking abilities enable him to perform effectively across diverse responsibilities.
Research Focus
Yohannes has established a strong research profile with publications in peer-reviewed journals, books, and conference works. His areas of interest include agricultural policy, technology adoption, risk perception, commercialization, ICTs in agriculture, and systematic reviews with meta-analysis. He has contributed valuable insights into the role of agricultural extension, credit access, mobile technology, and farm efficiency, with a particular focus on Ethiopian smallholder farmers. His book on Ethiopian agricultural policies and challenges reflects his ability to combine academic rigor with practical policy relevance. In addition to publishing widely, he engages in community service initiatives, such as improving market linkages and addressing postharvest loss management for farmers, showcasing his dedication to bridging research and real-world agricultural development.
Research Projects
Yohannes Girma Asefa has successfully led and contributed to a wide range of research projects in agriculture and economics. His work covers meta-analysis, production economics, farm management, agricultural marketing, and value chain development. He has investigated farmer behavior in relation to risk aversion, technology adoption, and market participation, offering evidence-based insights to support policy and development strategies. In addition, he has conducted collaborative projects with universities and institutions, addressing issues such as postharvest loss management, market linkages, and the use of ICTs in agricultural commercialization. Through these projects, Yohannes has consistently bridged academic research with practical applications to improve smallholder farmer livelihoods.
Publications
Ethiopia’s agricultural landscape: tradition, policy, and progress: exploring the growth, challenges, and transformation of Ethiopian agriculture
Author: Girma Y.
Journal/Publisher: Amazon
Risk Aversion and Perception of Farmers about Endogenous Risks: An Empirical Study for Maize Producers in Awi Zone, Amhara Region of Ethiopia
Authors: Girma Y., Kuma B., Bedemo A.
Journal: Journal of Risk and Financial Management
Credit access and agricultural technology adoption nexus in Ethiopia: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Author: Yohannes G.
Journal: Journal of Agriculture & Food Research
Mobile phone and beef cattle marketing: The case of Girar Jarso district of Oromia region, Ethiopia
Authors: Yohannes Girma, Adi Kelil
Journal: Cogent Food & Agriculture
A meta-analysis on the effect of agricultural extension on farmers’ market participation in Ethiopia
Authors: Yohannes Girma, Berhanu Kuma
Journal: Journal of Agriculture and Food Research
Conclusion
Yohannes Girma Asefa exemplifies the qualities of a dedicated researcher, academic leader, and agricultural development advocate. His strong educational background, extensive teaching and research experience, and impactful publications position him as a valuable contributor to agricultural economics and rural development. With recognized awards, community service contributions, and a commitment to integrity and teamwork, Yohannes continues to make meaningful contributions that advance agricultural systems, empower farmers, and shape policy frameworks in Ethiopia and beyond.