The United Arab Emirates (UAE) and the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia have expanded their ambitious initiative to train Ethiopian programmers from 5 million to 7 million participants. This decision comes in response to the initiative's remarkable success in surpassing its original target less than two years ahead of schedule. The expansion aims to further empower Ethiopian youth with essential digital skills, bolster the nation’s digital transformation and foster a knowledge-based economy.
Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed heralded this achievement as a testament to the country's commitment to digital advancement. “Reaching 5 million Ethiopian programmers in less than two years is an extraordinary achievement that reflects Ethiopia’s firm commitment to digital transformation and empowering youth and communities with future skills,” Abiy stated during a press conference in Addis Ababa. He emphasised that the overwhelming participation from Ethiopian youth has motivated the government to increase the initiative’s capacity, thus opening doors for even more young individuals to engage in digital learning.
The Prime Minister expressed gratitude towards the UAE for its strategic partnership, saying, “We extend our sincere appreciation to the United Arab Emirates for its unwavering support, which played a pivotal role in accelerating this achievement. This success demonstrates the power of international cooperation in supporting national priorities.” He also highlighted the initiative's role in creating economic opportunities and promoting innovation, essential components for building an inclusive digital economy.
Mohammed Abdullah Al Gergawi, UAE Minister of Cabinet Affairs, echoed these sentiments, emphasising the significance of the partnership between the two nations. “The collaboration between the governments of the United Arab Emirates and Ethiopia has achieved exceptional accomplishments,” Al Gergawi remarked. He pointed out that this partnership exemplifies how international cooperation can effectively develop societies and empower human resources while supporting digital transformation.
As both nations celebrate this milestone, they reaffirm their commitment to enhancing access to digital knowledge and preparing future generations for the challenges of an ever-evolving job market. The expansion of the Ethiopian Programmers Initiative marks a significant step towards realising a shared vision of sustainable development and technological advancement, ensuring that millions of young Ethiopians are equipped with the skills necessary for success in a competitive global economy.
