ADDIS ABABA- Regional states are calling on young people to participate in the Five Million Coders initiative, a digital training program launched in collaboration with the United Arab Emirates (UAE). As mobilization efforts expand, more youth are expected to take part in this transformative opportunity.
Accordingly, the Central Ethiopia State Chief Administrator Endashaw Tasew announced that focal persons have been assigned to facilitate the registration of participants following the program’s launch. High school students, civil servants, and others are already engaged in coding lessons. He emphasized that the initiative is a critical step for Ethiopia, as the country works to accelerate technological transformation and build a robust digital economy.
“This initiative goes beyond coding; it enhances our IT applications in key sectors like security, education, health, and other social services. Offering such educational opportunities to a vast number of trainees will transform work culture and create new job opportunities. Moreover, participants will become more competitive in global job markets,” Endashaw explained.
He added that technical and vocational school graduates, as well as university students, are benefiting from the training, but urged even more citizens to take advantage of the program.
The Amhara State’s Urban Infrastructural Development Bureau Head Ahmedin Muhammad (PhD) noted that the state government is actively mobilizing youth across 14 zones and 8 town administrations to participate. “The youth are the ultimate beneficiaries. They will develop innovative skills through practical courses on digital technology,” he said.
The Somali State’sInnovation and Technology Bureau Deputy Head Muhammad Hussein called on local youth to join the training online. He stressed that courses in data science and artificial intelligence are key components of the program that participants should prioritize.
The Five Million Coders initiative, backed by the UAE, is being implemented in partnership with Ethiopia’s federal government.
BY YESUF ENDRIS
The Ethiopian Herald September 27/2024
