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Raya University’s Corridor Development Signals a Shift in Campus Planning and Regional Investment
By Chekole Alemu
Raya University’s decision to launch a large scale corridor development project marks more than a physical expansion of campus infrastructure. It reflects a broader policy direction aimed at modernizing public universities and positioning them as anchors of regional development in Tigray.
The foundation stone was laid on January 17, 2026, by Professor Tadesse Dejene, President of Raya University, formally launching a project with a projected cost exceeding 400 million birr and a three year completion timeline. The initiative aligns with the federal government’s corridor development concept promoted by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, which seeks to integrate infrastructure, public services, and economic activity within institutional and urban spaces.
According to our correspondent, Engineer Siyum Adhana, Head of Engineering Services and Maintenance at the university, said the project will connect academic buildings through access roads and internal pathways, easing long standing mobility challenges and improving overall campus functionality. The plan also includes recreational and commercial spaces, such as modern cafes and shared amenities, designed to serve students, staff, and visitors.
The corridor development is expected to strengthen the university’s academic mission by improving teaching and research environments and encouraging stronger interaction between the university and the surrounding community. For Raya University, the project represents a strategic investment in institutional growth and long term quality.
According to our correspondent, the construction phase is expected to create employment opportunities and stimulate local economic activity, a notable contribution in a region still recovering from conflict and economic disruption.
The project is largely financed by Raya University, though discussions are underway with other stakeholders to secure additional funding. Observers see the initiative as a test case for extending the corridor development model beyond major urban centers.
Overall, the Raya University corridor project illustrates how national development policies are being translated into tangible investments in Tigray’s higher education sector, with potential implications for campus planning and regional development.
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