Freshman Program Directorate (FPD)

Gezate Gete (Asst. Prof.)

Welcome to all incoming students to the Dire Dawa University.! As the newest members of our university community, you are our pride and joy! On behalf of the entire university community, I pledge that we will do everything possible to ensure that you develop your talents and interests to their fullest while you are here. Dire Dawa University is a place where you can achieve your true potential, a place where you can realize your dreams. My advice to you is this: take advantage of this opportunity. Study hard, make new friends, and try new clubs and activities. Get to know your teachers. These experiences, and many others you will have during your time here, will prepare you to make your mark on the country and the world. I look forward to getting to know you in the coming years as our students, and for decades to come as our alumni.

Rationale

A university is bigger and more diverse than a high school campus, and education delivery system is also different.  Besides these facts, social, cultural, academic, and economic differences are often a breeding ground for misunderstandings of studying at university that severely affect student’s academic achievements. Freshman Program Directorate (FPD) is organized as one of the academic wings to balance these differences and to help first-year students to adapt to new academic environment so as to make the most of the exciting university experiences. The program comprises Freshman Program Directorate Director, Freshman Program Directorate Associate Director, Freshman Program Associate Registrar, Social and Natural Science Coordinators, Social and Natural Science registrar coordinators, Social and Natural Science and Business and Economics College common course coordinators and a team with Admission and Placement Experts and Record and Documentation experts to facilitate the program. The office also helps new students to be a part of DDU community by introducing them to student clubs, student service providing offices, and sport events. FPD office provides general advising on different issues concerned on students’ academic and nonacademic problems. In addition, the office advises students on how and where students can work together and exchange information with senior students. The courses, offer in the first year, are intended to ample students’ knowledge, ensure a happy stay and fulfilling university study by enhancing their adaptation to new environment for a successful academic accomplishment. Freshman courses grant student with fundamental knowledge and skills in which they acquire foundation for success in the remaining undergraduate years of study and beyond.