Addis Ababa University (AAU) has recently marked 75 years of academic excellence and national impact, commemorating its Golden Jubilee with a series of high-level events.
During the anniversary celebration, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed (PhD), an alumnus of Addis Ababa University, delivered a guest lecture titled “The Role of Intellectuals in National Prosperity” to members of the university community, academic leaders, and senior government officials.
In his address, the Prime Minister announced that Ethiopia is preparing to establish an Artificial Intelligence (AI) University within the next six months. He stated that the university is designed to produce at least 1,000 graduates, equipped with strong practical and hands-on skills.
As part of its continental and global vision, the Prime Minister revealed that 100 African students, two from each African country will receive fully funded scholarship opportunities. In addition, Ethiopians from the diaspora community will also be eligible for scholarships, reinforcing national engagement in advanced technological education.
Prime Minister Abiy emphasized that while many universities worldwide offer AI programs at departmental levels, there is currently only one standalone Artificial Intelligence University globally, the Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence in Abu Dhabi.
The Prime Minister noted that if Ethiopia proceeds as planned, it will become the second country in the world to establish a dedicated AI university.
Underscoring the importance of investing in future generations, the Prime Minister stressed that keeping pace with and staying ahead of, the Fourth Industrial Revolution requires urgency, competitiveness, and strategic foresight.
The Prime Minister further highlighted the need to align Ethiopia’s development agenda with the rapidly evolving global technological landscape.
By Birhanu Workneh
