Ethiopia Highlights AI, Digital Skills and Private Investment in Human Capital Development

Addis Ababa, October 19, 2026 (ENA) — Ethiopia has highlighted its efforts to expand artificial intelligence (AI) and digital skills, strengthen job-oriented training, and mobilize private investment in human capital development.

Speaking at the Human Capital Ministerial Conclave on Private Capital for Skills, Governor of the National Bank of Ethiopia (NBE), Dr. Eyob Tekalign, outlined the country’s policy initiatives and digital learning programs aimed at preparing young people for an evolving labor market.

 

He highlighted key initiatives, including the National AI Policy, the Ethiopian Artificial Intelligence Institute, Digital Ethiopia 2030, the Five Million Coders initiative, and Medemer AI University, as part of Ethiopia’s efforts to build its AI and digital skills ecosystem.

Dr. Eyob also pointed to pilot programs introducing AI Coaches and AI Tutors in secondary schools, as well as collaboration with the World Bank on an AI-enabled, gender-responsive skills-for-jobs platform for technical and vocational education and training institutions.

The platform is designed to support skills development and employment opportunities, including for young people from refugee and host communities.

 

He emphasized that skills development requires shared responsibility among governments, employers, and training institutions, stressing that the impact of training should be measured by the relevance of the skills acquired and improvements in employment prospects rather than the number of people trained.

Dr. Eyob further underscored that mobilizing private capital for skills development must be guided by clear public priorities, quality standards, and equitable access to ensure that investment delivers meaningful and inclusive outcomes.

The Conclave is convened by the World Bank Group’s Human Capital Project, a network that brings together policymakers from countries committed to investing in people.

 

Ethiopia has been an active member since the Conclave’s establishment.