Mulatu Zerihun

I am currently an NRF[1] C2-rated researcher, Full Professor, and Head of the Department of Economics. In addition, I actively contribute to various institutional academic committees, including the Senate Committee. As of March 1, 2025, I have been appointed as the Chairholder of the UNESCO Chair in African Integration and Innovation. I hold an M.Sc. in Economics from Addis Ababa University, a Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) from Tshwane University of Technology's Business School, and a Ph. D[2] in Economics from the University of Pretoria. In recognition of my expertise, I was recently appointed as Professor Extraordinaire in the Department of Economics at the University of the Western Cape, Cape Town, South Africa. With over two decades of experience in higher education and five years in the industry, I possess extensive knowledge in teaching and research.

My research interests are diverse and encompass macroeconomic policy analysis, applied econometrics, development macroeconomics and finance, regional economic and monetary integration, political economy, institutional economics, innovation studies, poverty and income inequality, exchange rate dynamics, economic growth, cybersecurity, and socio-economic and livelihood studies. I have received numerous academic excellence awards and have authored or co-authored over 150 publications, including 100 accredited journal articles, 17 working papers, 32 conference presentations, a book, and 20 chapters in peer-reviewed books. Additionally, I have successfully supervised 10 Postdoctoral Fellows, 5 doctoral (PhD) candidates and 14 master's students, with several more in progress.

Since January 2025, I have also been serving as Professor Extraordinaire at the University of the Western Cape. My academic collaborations extend internationally, with active involvement in several research projects with institutions across Africa and globally. My research metrics on platforms such as Google Scholar, ResearchGate, and Academia.edu reflect my significant global contributions, with my Research Interest Score surpassing 90% of ResearchGate members. Throughout my career, I have built a strong foundation in economic growth dynamics, livelihood analysis, institutional economics, environmental economics, and political economy, consistently contributing to these fields through my publications. My research is grounded in the practical application of economic principles to address real-world challenges, with a particular focus on the African context.

[1] The National Research Foundation (NRF) is a prominent funding and support body for research and innovation in South Africa. It plays a key role in advancing the country’s scientific and technological development, facilitating collaboration between academic institutions, industries, and government.

[2] PhD Advisors; Prof. Marthinus C Breitenbach (University of Pretoria, South Africa) and Prof. Francis Kemegue (Business School, Framingham State University, USA).  DBA - supervisors Prof Mammo Muchie and Prof Zeleke Worku, TUT Business School.

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