Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has announced that Ethiopia’s first Artificial Intelligence (AI) University will begin operations next year, marking a major milestone in the fields of technology, education, and innovation.

Addressing the House of People’s Representatives, the Prime Minister stated that the development of artificial intelligence has become a central pillar of the national reform agenda, supported by sustained investments in technology, digital skills, and innovation to enhance the country’s global competitiveness.

He emphasized that while AI has not yet been fully integrated into the priorities of many African countries and other regions worldwide, Ethiopia has taken proactive steps to institutionalize this strategic sector and prepare for the demands of an increasingly competitive international environment.

Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed noted that youth empowerment lies at the heart of this vision, with technology elevated as one of the five pillars of national economic growth, considered a key investment for the future.

He also revealed that the construction of a large-scale AI university—described as the second largest in the world—is progressing rapidly and is expected to be completed in the coming months, opening a new chapter in the country’s transformation efforts.

Drawing a parallel with previous national successes, particularly the rise of Ethiopian Airlines, the Prime Minister indicated that the university is expected to become a catalyst for innovation and opportunity for young Ethiopians.

He further highlighted the “Five Million Coders” initiative, aimed at equipping young people with advanced digital skills, noting that three million youth have already been trained.

According to the Prime Minister, these initiatives—combined with investments in education and digital technologies—are expected to drive sustainable structural transformation and strengthen Ethiopia’s position in the global digital economy.

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