Short Professional Bio

Araya Abrham is an architect, researcher, and lecturer at the University of Gondar, Ethiopia, specializing in architectural heritage conservation and indigenous building knowledge. He holds an MSc in Conservation of Urban and Architectural Heritage, with research interests spanning vernacular architecture, earthen construction, heritage documentation, and the adaptation of indigenous knowledge to contemporary architecture. His work particularly focuses on documenting and conserving Ethiopia’s overlooked architectural heritage, including Gondarian vernacular architecture, while exploring digital documentation, photogrammetry, and artificial intelligence for heritage risk assessment and conservation. He is also interested in strengthening heritage education, research, and conservation practice through interdisciplinary collaboration and the establishment of heritage-focused research and training initiatives.