By: Kassahun Chanie
Africa Skills Week 2025 officially kicked off in Addis Ababa today, with Ethiopian Labour and Skills Minister Muferiat Kamil underscoring the event's critical role in shaping Africa's industrial future through strategic skills development.
The landmark event, hosted at the African Union headquarters, aims to foster collaboration and action towards equipping the continent's youthful population with the skills needed to drive economic transformation.
"It is a deep honor and a point of national pride to host Africa Skills Week here in Addis Ababa," Minister Muferiat Kamil said during her opening address, which was held at the African Union headquarters in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, and was attended by representatives from various African nations, private sector leaders, development partners, ambassadors, and media personnel.
She emphasized the event’s focus on laying the groundwork for Africa’s economic evolution, moving beyond raw material extraction to manufacturing through a skilled workforce.
Minister Muferiat, who is the Ethiopian Labour and Skills Minister, stated that Africa Skills Week 2025 is crucial for empowering the continent's youth and driving economic growth.
She articulated that skills are essential for realizing Agenda 2063, Africa's strategic framework for socio-economic transformation.
She also emphasized the importance of equipping individuals with the skills necessary to not only seek employment but also create job opportunities.
According to Minister Muferiat, Ethiopia is committed to a comprehensive approach to Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), built upon the foundation established by Ghana during Africa Skills Week 2024.
She noted that the country is focused on fostering an entrepreneurial spirit among young people through the integration of essential business acumen and soft skills into the technical curricula.
She also said her ministry is promoting green skills essential for the continent's sustainable future.
Furthermore, Minister Muferiat highlighted the integration of mentorship and access to financing as crucial support services for young Ethiopians starting their own ventures.
She noted the need for equipping the workforce with skills in renewable energy and environmental management to facilitate a just transition.
Speaking about the connection between training institutions and industry leaders, the minister explained that strengthening ties ensures that educational curricula remain relevant and effective.
She highlighted a welding training center that has earned international certifications as an example of success achieved through rigorous quality assurance.
“Platforms like Africa Skills Week are essential in inspiring partnerships,” Minister Kamil stated, noting their ability to align policy frameworks and enhance the quality of skill acquisition across the continent.
The minister believes these collaborations are key to addressing the skills gap and preparing Africa’s workforce for the demands of the 21st-century economy.
The event is expected to generate actionable strategies and foster new partnerships, ensuring that Africa's burgeoning workforce is ready to meet the challenges and opportunities of a rapidly changing global landscape.
Discussions will center on aligning skills development with industry needs, promoting entrepreneurship, and fostering innovation to drive sustainable economic growth across the continent.
