Ethiopia Bets on Young Minds to Build an Innovation-Driven Economy

Edition : Africa Eye

The Ethiopian government inaugurated, yesterday, Tuesday, the fourth edition of the National Skills Competition in Addis Ababa under the slogan “Enlightened Minds, Skilled Citizens,” with broad participation from various regions and federal administrations. This step reflects the state’s commitment to nurturing talent and aligning education with labor market demands.

During his opening ceremony speech, Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen Tiruneh emphasized that the new generation carries a moral responsibility to build the nation’s future by harnessing their skills and creative energies. He stressed that “betting on human capital is what makes the difference between nations, not just natural resources,” urging youth to become role models across the African continent.

Organized by the Ministry of Labor and Skills
in collaboration with the Federal Technical and Vocational Training Institute, this competition has evolved into a national platform to support innovation and bolster a knowledge-based economy. Over 70 new technologies, developed by participants from across the country—including Addis Ababa and Dire Dawa—are showcased at the event.

Mufriat Kamil, Minister of Labor and Skills, highlighted that innovation lies at the heart of Ethiopia’s developmental phase, stating, This competition is not merely a contest but a real laboratory for honing skills and directing them toward serving the national economy. She also announced the ministry’s commitment to providing technical and financial support to young talents, with a focus on their long-term empowerment.

Running from May 5 to 10, this national event serves as a strategic platform to discover young potential and celebrate local creativity, aligning with a government vision to qualify future engineers and solidify the foundations of an Ethiopian economy rooted in innovation and knowledge.