The Oromo Studies Association (OSA) is deeply saddened by the tragic and untimely death of
Madda Walaabuu University faculty and staff. As academics and researchers, the deceased are our
compatriots, and we share the sacred principle of educating our people, cultivating and harnessing
Oromo knowledge, and contributing to the progress of our shared community. Our values, research
activities and academic endeavors are mutually supportive and reinforcing. As such, their sudden
death is a great loss for us in the academic and research community and Oromo society as a whole.
We understand the pain and loss that their untimely death will cause to Madda Walaabuu
University, its students and our community is too deep to repair. We also understand that this
tragedy will deeply pain the students who viewed these professors and staff as role models and
wished to follow in their footsteps. Most significantly, the loss is immeasurable for members of
their families, their communities, and the Oromo nation.
The Oromo Studies Association expresses its deepest condolences to the families of the deceased,
and to the Madda Walaabuu University administration, students, and staff.

Oromo Studies Association
Board of Directors