Embrace emerging technologies: President

Source: Embrace emerging technologies: President | The Sunday Mail

President Mnangagwa addresses delegates during the National Youth Day celebrations in Bulawayo on Friday. — Picture: Believe Nyakudjara

Sunday Mail Reporter

YOUTHS in both rural and urban areas should embrace and leverage emerging technologies to create wealth, generate jobs and drive Zimbabwe’s development, President Mnangagwa has said.

In his address at the National Youth Day celebrations in Bulawayo on Friday, the President said the application of technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) in various sectors globally calls for the nation, especially the youths, to have the requisite digital proficiencies and capabilities.

President Mnangagwa also launched the Zimbabwe Digital Skills Development Programme, which is expected to enhance digital literacy and skills for at least 1,5 million young people.

“In this digital age, you must be equipped with the necessary skills to navigate the complex global ecosystem. The rapid application of artificial intelligence entails that we must adapt to the fast-changing world by capacitating ourselves, sector by sector, with the requisite digital proficiencies and capabilities,” President Mnangagwa said.

“I, therefore, challenge you, our young people, to harness the transformative power of technology, innovate and unleash your enthusiasm as well as entrepreneurship skills towards creating wealth and job opportunities, while contributing to the growth of our economy.”

He expressed confidence in Zimbabwe’s youths, saying he believes “you have the capacity to deliver, to be productive and to make our country a shining beacon as the future of the country lies in your hands”.

The Zimbabwe Digital Skills Development Programme, President Mnangagwa said, will empower and enhance employability for the youths, as well as foster national economic growth. Implemented in collaboration with the United Arab Emirates, the programme, the President added, will also encourage entrepreneurship through the establishment of local tech solutions and start-ups.

“Allow me to express our profound gratitude to the Government of the United Arab Emirates for supporting our national development thrust. The initiative will train 1, 5 million young people across the country as software engineers, developers and programmers.

“This will enhance digital literacy and skills among Zimbabwean citizens and empower a new generation of professionals who can contribute to technological innovation,” he said.

“Under this programme, young people will gain skills across three domains: programming fundamentals; data science fundamentals; and Android developer fundamentals. This will enhance the employability of our young people while empowering the youth and fostering economic growth. Furthermore, the programme encourages innovation and creativity as well as entrepreneurship through the development of local tech solutions and start-ups.

“This must enhance the country’s competitiveness in the global market.”

President Mnangagwa also urged the youths to emulate their forebears, who demonstrated courage and selflessness in the face of adversity.

The liberation struggle, he said, is a historical milestone that was championed by brave youths.

“As we observe this special day, it is yet another opportunity to reflect on the critical role played by the youth of yesteryear in laying a solid and unshakeable foundation for our beloved motherland, Zimbabwe.

“We also have a chance to chart and refine the journey we are taking for a brighter future, particularly the role of you, our young people,” the President added.

“In undertaking this critical task, remain emboldened by the virtues of courage, selfless sacrifice and bravery, which were defining among the youths of yesteryear. They took up arms against the oppressive colonial regime and brought us independence, sovereignty, territorial integrity, freedom and democracy.”

This year’s celebrations were held under the theme “Empower Youth, Secure the Future”.