On October 19, 2019, Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed addressed the third Russia-Africa Summit, highlighting Ethiopia's vision for artificial intelligence (AI). He emphasized the need for collaboration with Russian universities and research institutions in education and research. This call for cooperation aims to foster mutual growth and knowledge sharing between the two nations.
Prime Minister Abiy stressed that technological cooperation goes beyond building infrastructure; it requires developing local expertise to manage, operate, and regulate these systems. In today's era, knowledge and technological capabilities are closely tied to AI. He noted that AI technologies, as currently developed, determine which languages are represented and whose experiences are included.
The Prime Minister emphasized the importance of African researchers developing AI solutions in local languages. This approach would enable more inclusive and representative technology. He also highlighted that institutions must decide how these solutions utilize local data. By doing so, Ethiopia and Africa can ensure that AI serves the needs of their populations.
Ethiopia is establishing a university focused on inclusive AI, and Prime Minister Abiy invited Russian universities and institutions to collaborate on teaching and research. This partnership aims to promote mutual understanding and advancement in AI. The Prime Minister noted that knowledge is now flowing in both directions between the two nations.
He cited the translation of a Russian medical book into Amharic over 130 years ago and the recent translation of an inclusive book into Russian. These examples demonstrate the historical and ongoing collaboration between Ethiopia and Russia. By building on this foundation, the two nations can strengthen their ties and drive progress in AI and other fields.
Prime Minister Abiy's call for African researchers to develop AI solutions in local languages resonates with the global push for more inclusive and diverse technology. By prioritizing local languages and expertise, Ethiopia and Africa can ensure that AI serves the needs of their populations and promotes sustainable development.
The establishment of Ethiopia's inclusive AI university and the proposed collaboration with Russian institutions mark significant steps toward achieving this goal. As AI continues to shape the world, Prime Minister Abiy's vision for inclusive technology can help bridge the gap between nations and promote global understanding.
Key points
- Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed urges African researchers to develop AI solutions in local languages.
- Ethiopia is establishing a university focused on inclusive AI and invites Russian institutions to collaborate on teaching and research.
- The Prime Minister emphasizes the importance of local expertise in managing, operating, and regulating AI systems.
