Autobiography

My name is Bereket Kiflemariam Basa. I was born on May 30, 1990, in the Wolaita region of southern Ethiopia. I am proud of my Wolaita heritage and the values of hard work, perseverance, faith, and community service that shaped my upbringing. Growing up in Ethiopia, I witnessed both the challenges and opportunities facing my community, experiences that inspired my lifelong commitment to education, engineering, and public service.

I completed my primary and secondary education in Ethiopia, where I developed a strong interest in mathematics, science, and problem-solving. These interests eventually led me to pursue higher education in engineering and construction management.

In 2008, I was admitted to Addis Ababa University, specifically the Ethiopian Institute of Architecture, Building Construction, and City Development (EIABC), where I studied Construction Technology and Management. During my university years, I gained technical knowledge in construction engineering, project management, infrastructure development, and urban planning. Studying in Ethiopia's capital city exposed me to diverse perspectives and strengthened my desire to contribute to the development of my country through engineering and education.

After graduating from Addis Ababa University in 2013, I began my academic and professional career at Bule Hora University. There, I served in several roles, including Assistant Lecturer, Site and Office Engineer, and Head of the Construction Technology and Management Department. My responsibilities included teaching undergraduate students, supervising engineering projects, developing laboratory facilities, preparing technical documents, assisting with procurement processes, and mentoring future engineers. These experiences strengthened my leadership abilities and deepened my understanding of the practical challenges facing infrastructure development in Ethiopia.

In 2015, I joined Wolaita Sodo University, where I continued my academic career. Over the years, I served as an Assistant Lecturer and later as a Lecturer. I also held administrative and technical leadership positions, including Construction Project Advisor and Director within the Construction Project and Contract Administration Directorate (CPCAD). My work involved teaching, research, contract administration, project supervision, curriculum development, and student mentorship. I was committed to promoting transparency, accountability, and quality in engineering education and infrastructure projects.

Alongside my professional work, I became increasingly interested in community advocacy, public service, and the rights of minority communities. Growing up in Wolaita and witnessing social and political challenges affecting my community encouraged me to become actively engaged in peaceful civic and political activities. I supported efforts aimed at promoting human rights, democratic participation, good governance, and the rights of the Wolaita people.

In 2019, I received the prestigious Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarship and moved to Hungary to pursue graduate studies. I enrolled at Széchenyi István University in Győr, where I completed a Master of Science degree in Infrastructural Engineering with a specialization in Transportation Engineering. Following the successful completion of my master's degree, I continued my academic journey as a Ph.D. student in Transport Engineering at the same university.

My doctoral research focuses on transportation systems, traffic operations, intersection performance, and sustainable infrastructure development. My work seeks to identify innovative solutions to improve transportation efficiency, safety, and mobility. Throughout my academic career, I have participated in research projects, conference presentations, scientific publications, peer review activities, and student mentorship programs. I am passionate about applying engineering knowledge to solve real-world challenges and improve the quality of life for communities.

In addition to my academic pursuits, I have contributed to research on signalized intersections, roundabouts, transportation planning, and sustainable infrastructure. My research interests include traffic engineering, intelligent transportation systems, sustainable urban mobility, and infrastructure management. I believe that effective transportation systems play a critical role in economic development, public safety, and environmental sustainability.

Beyond engineering and research, I am deeply committed to education and mentorship. Throughout my career, I have supported students, young professionals, and members of my community by sharing knowledge, encouraging professional development, and promoting lifelong learning. I believe education is one of the most powerful tools for social progress and personal transformation.

My journey has not been without challenges. Throughout my life, I have faced personal, professional, and political obstacles that tested my resilience and determination. However, these experiences strengthened my commitment to justice, integrity, and service. They also reinforced my belief that individuals can create positive change through education, perseverance, and principled leadership.

Today, I continue to pursue academic excellence while seeking opportunities to contribute to research, education, infrastructure development, and community service. My long-term goal is to use my expertise in transportation engineering and project management to support sustainable development, improve infrastructure systems, and contribute to the advancement of society.

I remain grateful for the opportunities I have received throughout my educational and professional journey. As I look toward the future, I am committed to continuing my research, supporting future generations of engineers, and promoting solutions that improve transportation, infrastructure, and quality of life for communities around the world.