Aklilu earned both his BSc and MSc degrees in Mechanical Engineering in Ethiopia. His MSc thesis delved into the investigation of material behavior under repeated cyclic loading, employing advanced numerical methods. Following the successful completion of his MSc, he contributed to the academic realm by serving as a lecturer in Ethiopia for a period exceeding two years.

Aklilu is currently enrolled in a Ph.D. program in Chemical Engineering at University of Waterloo. His ongoing research focuses on the development of functional nanomaterials designed for safeguarding against harmful radiations. In his leisure time Aklilu enjoys biking and watching soccer.