ADDIS ABABA– Ministry of Innovation and Technology (MinT) has finalized preparations to host Science, Technology, Research, Innovation, Digitalization and Entrepreneurship (‘STRIDE) Ethiopia 2024’ annual expo at the National Science Museum. The expo is slated to be held from May 18-26, 2024. Briefing Media, MinT State Minister Yisherun Alemayehu mentioned that the national expo which will be held under the theme “Science Unlocks, Technology Connects, Innovation Drives’’, would be officially launched on May 17, 2024 at ICT park in the presence of senior government officials. He said that science, technology and innovation have remained at the heart of many developed countries economic growth. Cognizant to this fact, Ethiopia has also given due emphasis to the sector and undertaken several steps towards that. One of such efforts is organizing such events which are instrumental not only to showcase the activities that have been done but also to create awareness and conducive environment for the future, as to him. The State Minister said that the expo would showcase the activities that have been undertaken in science, technology, research, innovation, digitalization and entrepreneurship (STRIDE) and would be open for public from May 18-26 at national science museum, he noted. Over 30 public institutions would introduce e–services and technology based services, 40 banks and e-commerce companies, 50 ICT companies from the private sector and over 30 actors on innovation are expected to take part. He further indicated that ongoing innovative works in IT, health, education, agriculture, industry and tourism would be exhibited; while institutions newly installed technologies and IT works will be introduced. Moreover, youth and children Hackathon contest, panel discussion and experience sharing are said to be part of the programs. Mentioning that the Ministry has been recognizing and rewarding innovators, experts and researchers, he stated that recognition would be given to those actors who have made immense contribution in the science, technology and innovation sector at the expo. MinT Senior Advisor Abiyot Bayu (PhD) on his part noted that the nation is executing several activities with regard to enhancing science, technology and innovation sector. Thus, the expo would showcase what has been achieved so far while introducing various startups, innovation works and technologies at one place. He mentioned that panel discussion, experience sharing, and presentations on digital economy, among others, are part of the program. BY BETELHEM BEDLU The Ethiopian herald May 15/2024
