Ethiopia ALICT 2014-2014

Ethiopia boasts a large population of an estimated 84 million people who can supply labour and markets for agricultural products, which is the mainstay of the economy. A steady economic growth rate has made Ethiopia one of the fastest growing economies in Africa. Coupled with these are the critical successes factors of peace and political stability and the ambitious reform efforts to initiate a transition to a more democratic system of governance and decentralized authority. The government therefore has a role to play, to take advantage of these success factors to transform Ethiopia into a knowledge-based society and economy.

Comprehensive policies and plans in the three pillars under review to fast track KS development in Ethiopia. Relevant policies and plans include a 

• Plan for Accelerated and Sustained Development to End Poverty 2005/06-2009/10(PASDEP)
• the Growth and Transformation Plan (GTP) 2010/11-2014/15 and 
• the National ICT for Development Action Plan 2006-2010. 

These have led to among others substantial benefits for ease of transacting businesses as it has facilitated private sector development such as electronic commerce (e-commerce), electronic trade (e-trade) and foreign direct investment. In the education sector, the Education Sector Development Programme IV (ESDP IV) 2010/11-2014/15) has led to high order skills development and the expansions of education systems at primary, secondary and tertiary levels.

In 2012, a study conducted by GESCI found that the policies in place indicate the willingness and commitment from the Ethiopian government to transform the country development towards a Knowledge-based Economy and Society. The major focus is accelerated national development by integrating ICTs in different sectors of economy, providing equitable primary education, and use of Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) for socio-economic development.