Dr. Zerihun Abebe is a distinguished physician, academic leader, and health systems strategist with extensive experience in medical education, healthcare leadership, and large-scale health system transformation. He currently serves as the Acting Vice Chancellor of the African Health Sciences University, bringing a wealth of regional and international expertise to the institution.

Dr. Zerihun previously served as Provost of St. Paul’s Hospital Millennium Medical College in Ethiopia, where he led academic development, institutional growth, and strategic partnerships. He also held key leadership roles as Dean of the College of Health Sciences at Mekelle University and Medical Director of Ayder Referral Hospital. Across these roles, he has successfully managed complex healthcare systems and programs with significant operational and financial scope.

A visionary leader, Dr. Zerihun has spearheaded several transformative national healthcare initiatives. Notably, he led the establishment of Ethiopia’s first kidney transplant center and played a pivotal role in expanding oncology, cardiac, and gastrointestinal specialty services. He has overseen the development of major healthcare infrastructure projects, including multi-specialty hospitals and specialized treatment centers, significantly improving access to advanced care.

Dr. Zerihun has also served as a senior advisor to the Ethiopian Ministry of Health, contributing to national policy development, healthcare investment strategies, and system-wide reforms. His work has included leading national programs in hemodialysis expansion, cancer care, fertility services, and forensic medicine. In addition, he has been actively involved in shaping private sector participation in healthcare through investment advisory and consultancy roles.

An advocate for capacity building and regional collaboration, Dr. Zerihun has led international medical missions and supported health system strengthening efforts in countries such as South Sudan and Somalia. His commitment to advancing healthcare extends beyond clinical systems to education, where he champions the training of skilled, ethical, and globally competitive health professionals.

Dr. Zerihun holds a Doctor of Medicine degree and a specialty certification in Dermatology and Venereology from Addis Ababa University. He is recognized for his leadership excellence, having received the National Healthcare Leadership Award in 2017.

As Acting Vice Chancellor, Dr. Zerihun is dedicated to positioning the African Health Sciences University as a premier institution in health sciences education, research, and innovation-driving impact across Rwanda, Africa, and the global health landscape.