DEMERA and Citizen to Citizen (C2C) join forces to launch IT training program for youth and women affected by conflict

Today, DEMERA and Citizen to Citizen (C2C) signed a partnership agreement to launch an IT training program aimed at empowering young people and women affected by internal conflict. This collaboration seeks to provide those who have been deprived of educational opportunities with the chance to build their IT skills and explore their potential.

Dr. Salie Ayele, Chairman of the Board at C2C, expressed the importance of this partnership: "Working with DEMERA is crucial for the new generation, who often miss out on opportunities to study IT. We need to move beyond merely relying on donations and work towards self-sufficiency and positive change in our communities. Many individuals possess talent but lack the chance to develop it. Providing this opportunity can significantly impact their lives."

Highlighting the importance of focusing on the youth, Dr. Salie added, "The younger generation is already close to technology. Starting early and fostering a startup mindset can help them become independent and create lasting change. What DEMERA is doing is a model we can replicate in the future. We hope that once we have a proven, impactful model, donors will support our mission."

As part of the collaboration, DEMERA has donated 30 laptops to C2C to kick off the training. This contribution marks the beginning of a program designed to bring life-changing IT skills to those in need.

Mr. Tewodros Guday, Vice Chairman of DEMERA, emphasized the importance of open communication in this partnership: "Timely discussions and transparency are key to ensuring the success and sustainability of our collaboration. We envision that, once trained, these individuals will support our initiative by mentoring new trainees and even sponsoring exam vouchers for future candidates. This model will help sustain DEMERA's efforts in the long run."

Mr. Endalkachew Yaregal, Director of C2C, shared his optimism about the impact of the collaboration: "I am confident we will achieve great things, and I am immensely grateful for the dedication of Mrs. Yetemegn Kebede, Chairwoman of DEMERA. We anticipate challenges, but we are prepared to learn and grow from them, striving to be better tomorrow than we are today."

He also introduced the idea of "Irsho" – a vision focused on empowering individuals to grow and achieve independence. "No one can support the community better than the community itself. We are constantly thinking of ways to contribute positively and work differently, collaborating with the government at the grassroots level to meet the most pressing needs. Our work in 8 Woredas, 3 Zones, and 2 Regions has touched the lives of over 130,000 individuals."

Mrs. Yetemegn Kebede, Chairwoman of DEMERA, expressed her excitement about the partnership: "I am deeply inspired by the concept of 'Irsho,' which motivated me to contribute to this collaboration with C2C. We are thrilled about this opportunity and look forward to a long-term partnership."

The collaboration between DEMERA and C2C will commence soon, marking a significant step toward creating positive change. The impact of this program will extend beyond immediate training, fostering long-term growth and development in the community. Through this initiative, DEMERA and C2C aim to empower participants with IT skills, paving the way for future employment and contributing to the country's technological advancement.