MinT Highlights the Importance of Data Science Capacity Building for Achieving Digital Ethiopia 2025 Goals

Addis Ababa, December 24, 2024 (FMC) – The Capital Financial Excellence Center (CaFEC), in collaboration with the Emerald International College, hosted a consultative forum to enhance cooperation and unveil the “Data Science for Banking and Finance Joint Program.” The event, themed “Driving Ethiopia’s Digital Future through Data Science,” gathered high-ranking officials, including State Minister of the Ministry of Innovation and Technology, Dr. Bayissa Badada, as well as senior advisers from the National Bank of Ethiopia and leaders from the banking industry and academia.

In his address, Dr. Bayissa Badada emphasized the government’s commitment to harnessing the capabilities of information and communication technology and data science, citing the Five Million Ethiopian Coders Initiative as a significant illustration of this focus.

He highlighted the critical role of capacity building in data science and related fields to advance the government’s vision of the Digital Ethiopia 2025 strategy. Dr. Bayissa argued that such programs would be instrumental in tapping into digital opportunities and fostering a knowledge-based, innovative digital economy. He called for continued support for initiatives like Emerald International College’s “Data Science for Banking and Finance Certification Program.”

Martha Hailemariam, Senior Advisor at the National Bank of Ethiopia, affirmed the importance of data science in equipping financial professionals with vital skills that would help establish a competent and inclusive digital financial system.

Fedlu Nurhussien, the Director of Data Science and Technology Affairs at Emerald International College, expressed the institution’s dedication to aiding national efforts in enhancing competence and innovation within Ethiopia’s financial sector.

Representatives from the banking industry echoed the need for professional development and community capacity building to strengthen the country’s financial sector competitiveness.