In a move aimed to equip AAU students with digital skills and enhance their employability, Addis Ababa University (AAU) and DEMERA (Digital Enlightenment for Modern Ethiopian Reforms and Aspirations) have entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).

The agreement outlines key areas of collaboration to advance the digital skills and employability of AAU graduates.

Both parties commit to adhering to the principles of collaboration, including openness, sharing of information, joint project management, and timely delivery of trainings as indicated in the MOU.

Speaking at the signing of the MoU, Mrs. Yetemegn Kebede, CEO of DEMERA, said her organization will cooperatively work with AAU to provide digital training to AAU students, adding the training will give due priority to female students focusing on their Artificial Intelligence (AI), digital security, Azure cloud computing, Microsoft 365, soft skill and other related training needs with internationally recognized certification. DEMERA CEO said that her organization is committed to working towards closing the gender gap in the tech industry.

Samuel Kifle (PhD), President of AAU, for his part, said AAU, as a new autonomous university, strongly believes in forging ties and strategically working with partners like DEMERA.

The formalization of the MoU is a testament to the university’s new strategic direction and commitment to making a difference in the employability and future careers of its students through synergetic cooperation with diverse partners, the president further stated.

The MoU will become effective from the date of signing, April 30, 2024, and remain in force for an initial period of three years, with a possibility of renewal upon mutual consent of the parties..

The president of AAU, Dr Samuel Kifle, and Mrs.Yetemegn Kebede, CEO of DEMERA, signed the agreement.

AAU leadership team and DEMERA representatives witnessed the signing ceremony at the President’s Office.