Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering

Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering (ECE) is among the earliest departments of the College of Engineering and Technology established at the founding of Adigrat University. The department opened with seven lecturers, a technical assistant, and 51 students, and focuses on the objective of educating highly qualified technical specialists who can solve real-world problems, conduct research focusing on the needs of the country, and provide consultancy services to society.

Since its establishment, the department has been providing quality education with comprehensive theoretical foundations supported by practical applications as per national and international standards. It has graduated more than 1,100 Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Electrical and Computer Engineering graduates in four specializations: Communication Engineering, Computer Engineering, Control Engineering, and Power Engineering.

 Electrical and Computer Engineering department graduates of Adigrat University are playing a key role in the development of the country. Many of them are serving in major national organizations such as the Information Network Security Administration (INSA), Ethiopian Electric Utility, Ethiopian Airlines, Ethio Telecom, Ethiopian Maritime Authority, Commercial Bank of Ethiopia, Ethiopian Revenue and Customs Authority, and Ethiopian Broadcasting Corporation. Others are engaged in private business organizations, banks, television stations, Safaricom Ethiopia, cement factories, and in various other fields.

Currently, the department has 80 staff members, 1 PhD,8 Assistant professors, 36 lecturers, 25 Assistants, and 10 technical Assistants. Those staff are specialized in Communication Engineering, Computer Engineering, Control Engineering, Microelectronics Engineering, and Power Engineering.

Professional Profile of Electrical and Computer Engineering

Electrical and Computer Engineering (ECE) is a dynamic and interdisciplinary field at the forefront of technological innovation, encompassing the design, development, and application of electrical and electronic systems, devices, and computational technologies. It strikes a balance between breadth and depth to provide a solid foundation in the basic engineering, mathematics, and electrical engineering on one hand, and comprehensive training in humanities and management on the other. Electrical and computer engineering covers the broadest spectrum of activities among the engineering disciplines: Research and Development, Design, Production/Manufacturing, Installation, Operation and Maintenance, Analysis and Testing, Sales, Consultation and Purchase.

The Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at Adigrat University offers five specialized streams: Communication Engineering, Computer Engineering, Control Engineering, Electronics Engineering, and Power Engineering. Students in the department follow a common curriculum from the first year through the first semester of the fourth year, ensuring a solid foundation in core electrical and computer engineering principles. Beginning in the second semester of the fourth year, students will specialize in the stream of their choice, allowing them to gain in-depth knowledge and practical skills in their selected field of study.

Mission

By consolidating and deepening existing Knowledge, and acquiring the new emerging knowledge and technologies, the department strives to produce competent, innovative, and ethically responsible engineers who can address the technological and developmental challenges of Ethiopia and beyond. The department is committed to excellence in teaching, research, and community service through quality education. It aims to prepare graduates to excel in the fields of Communication, Computer, Control, Electronics, and Power Engineering, thereby fostering sustainable development of Ethiopia.

Vision

Becoming a center of excellence in engineering education, research, and innovation, recognized nationally and internationally for producing competent professionals and researchers.

Strategic goals

•       Provide Hands-on training in practical skills typical for the industry.
• prepare graduates with the capability of following the current and future developments in the field and related applications
• Engage students in research that offers optimal solutions to technical problems in the industry, energy sector, telecommunications, computer applications, and other industrial sectors.
• offer consultancy services to the government, industry, and society
• provide an opportunity for workers in the field of electrical technology to upgrade their knowledge through a continuing education evening program
• engage in research and development activities in collaboration with the local industry and partner universities.

Academic Program
The Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering offers undergraduate degrees through regular and extension programs. Since its establishment, the department has offered four specializations: Communication Engineering, Computer Engineering, Control Engineering, and Power Engineering. In 2017 E.C., the department added Electronics Engineering as the fifth specialization. A brief description of these streams follows:

Communication Engineering: Focuses on the transmission of information over various media, including radio waves, optical fibers, and satellite links.

Computer Engineering: combines principles of electrical engineering and computer science to design, develop, and maintain computer systems, hardware, and software.

Control Engineering: Deals with the design and implementation of automated control systems for a wide range of applications, including robotics, manufacturing, and aerospace.

Electronics Engineering: Deals with the design and development of electronic circuits and devices, including integrated circuits, transistors, and sensors.

Power Engineering: Focuses on the generation, transmission, distribution, and utilization of electrical power.

Thematic research covers the department and other community services.

The Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering is highly devoted to research and community service. Every year, many of the staff members participate in medium-scale and small-scale projects in collaboration with Adigrat University across different thematic areas. The department is also actively engaged in community service activities, such as consultancy and technical support services.

The main thematic areas that the department focuses on are:

• Renewable Energy
• Smart Grids and Microgrids
• Power System Stability and Control
• Wireless Communication
• Antenna and Electromagnetic field
• Signal processing
• Embedded systems and IOT
• Computer Networks and Communication Systems
• Artificial Intelligence
• Cyber Security
• Robotics
• industrial Automation and Process Control
• Control System Modeling, Analysis, and Design

Achievements

The following are some of the   works done by   the department

• In 2012 E.C., during the COVID-19 outbreak, the department proposed, designed, and manufactured an automatic handwashing machine to help prevent the spread of the coronavirus. These machines were distributed to Adigrat City.
• In 2015 E.C., the department proposed and redesigned the electrical systems of Adigrat University and restored the entire electrical network, which had been severely damaged by the devastating war. Moreover, at the end of 2015, the department collected all damaged electronic devices (computers, printers, photocopy machines). From the collected equipment, around 400 desktop computers were successfully repaired in collaboration with other staff of the university.
• Currently, electrical system failures in classroom blocks, dormitory block and kitchen facilities are being regularly maintained by the department.