The 5 Million Ethiopian Coders initiative is a significant result of the strategic partnership between the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Ethiopia, as highlighted by UAE Cabinet Affairs Competitiveness and Exchange of Experience Deputy Minister, Abdullah Nasser Lootah.
In his opening remarks at the initiative's launch, Lootah emphasized the rapid growth and development witnessed in the 31-year diplomatic relationship between the UAE and Ethiopia. He stated, "Today marks a new chapter in our cooperation with the 5 Million Ethiopian Coders initiative, a product of our close strategic collaboration in knowledge exchange."
Lootah noted that the strategic cooperation agreement was signed last August in the presence of the leaders of both countries. The initiative focuses on six key areas: digital transformation, programming, government services, civil services, workforce and leadership, and capacity building.
The UAE aims to establish more joint initiatives in various priority areas to benefit both nations' leadership and citizens. Quoting His Highness Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, Lootah said, “The race for excellence knows no end line,” which drives their continuous pursuit of progress and inclusivity in the digital age.
Lootah also referenced Prime Minister Dr. Abiy Ahmed’s belief that "our future is in the hands of our youth," underscoring the importance of this initiative in empowering Ethiopian youth. He affirmed that the initiative, under the slogan “Unlocking Talent for a New Tomorrow,” is a deeply held commitment to preparing Ethiopia's young people for the 21st century with essential digital skills.
The initiative offers four educational tracks: Android development, data science basics, programming, and artificial intelligence basics. Lootah concluded by stressing that this collaboration reflects the shared strategic visions and values of the UAE and Ethiopia.