Ethiopian AI Institute gains global recognition as potential UN-ODET Member

The Ethiopian Artificial Intelligence Institute (EAII) has emerged as a leading contender for membership in the United Nations Office for Digital and Emerging Technologies (UN-ODET), following a high-level evaluation visit by a UN delegation. The delegation, led by Dr. Amandeep Singh Gill, UN Under-Secretary-General and Special Envoy for Digital and Emerging Technologies, commended Ethiopia's rapid advancements in artificial intelligence during intensive discussions with EAII leadership. 

EAII Director General Dr. Worku Gachena

EAII Director General Dr. Worku Gachena showcased the institute's pioneering AI initiatives that align with Ethiopia's national development priorities, stressing capacity-building programs that nurture homegrown AI talent across the country. "Our institute stands ready to collaborate on AI solutions that address both Ethiopian and continental challenges," Dr. Gachena stated during the strategic engagement. 

Dr. Gill expressed particular admiration for Ethiopia's accelerated integration of AI technologies across sectors, noting the country's exceptional progress within a remarkably short timeframe. "The talent development framework implemented by EAII offers valuable lessons for other developing nations embarking on AI journeys," remarked the UN envoy, highlighting Ethiopia's potential to contribute meaningfully to global AI governance discussions. 

The closed-door technical session explored multiple collaboration avenues, including knowledge exchange programs, joint research initiatives, and policy development support.

By:  Nana Appiah Acquaye