ISTANBUL, February 25, 2024 — The Frontier Tech Leaders Programme (FTL) marked the completion of Djibouti Python Training. The Closing Webinar was joined by participants, partners and guests celebrating the first milestone in FTL Djibouti implementation.  

Launched at the 5th United Nations Conference on the Least Developed Countries (LDC5) conference by UNDP ICPSD and the United Nations Technology Bank for the Least Developed Countries (UNTBLDC) with the support of the Government of Türkiye, the Frontier Tech Leaders (FTL) Programme aims to address the digital divide in Least Developed Countries (LDCs) and empower the next generation of tech specialists. The Programme provides extensive training in technical skills, along with essential soft skills like entrepreneurship, as well as opportunities to network with industry leaders and participate in community events. 

The FTL Programme launched its first country implementation in Djibouti, delivering online Python training to Djiboutian youth in January 2024. The event was co-organized by FTL Programme partners: UNDP Istanbul International Center for Private Sector in Development (ICPSD), UN Technology Bank for Least Developed Countries (UNTBLDC), and UNDP Djibouti Country Office. 

The closing webinar brought together 20 successful graduates and esteemed FTL Programme partners from ICPSD, UNTBLDC and UNDP Djibouti Country Office. One of the top graduates, Liban Souleiman Abdillahi, conveyed his appreciation and remarked: "Today is not just the end of a two-week learning experience; it's a moment of empowerment and the beginning of a transformative journey.” 

Mr. Abdourazak Ahmed Idriss, Secretary-General of the Ministry of Finance in charge of Industry, praised the graduates' dedication to mastering cutting-edge technologies, affirming: "Your acquired skills are vital for driving innovation and sustainable development in Djibouti."  Also, Ms. Emma Ngouan-Anoh, UNDP Djibouti Resident Representative expressed high hopes for the graduates, affirming, " You are not just leaders, but pioneers of a future where innovation will play a central role in transforming Djibouti.” Together, these affirmations underscore the graduates' vital role in Djibouti's innovation and development. 

Building upon these sentiments, Mr. Erhan Sirt, Head of Multilateral Development Cooperation Department, Presidency of Strategy and Budget, Presidency of Türkiye, reaffirmed the graduates' potential, stating: "We are confident that participants will be catalysts for inclusive digital transformation in Djibouti.” Meanwhile, Mr. Sahba Sobhani, UNDP ICPSD, extended congratulations to the FTL graduates and remarked: "Today, we celebrate your achievements and look forward to the positive impact you will undoubtedly make in Djibouti's tech landscape and beyond." 

The graduates have received completion certificates, acknowledging their dedication and achievements. However, their journey doesn't stop here. The Frontier Tech Leaders Programme encourages FTL graduates to keep striving for excellence and making a difference as we move forward. 

Echoing this sentiment, Ms. Burcu Tamgac Morel, UNTB Capacity Building and Partnership Programme Officer, conveyed her heartfelt support for the FTL Programme. She stated, "We firmly believe that our current efforts and the Frontier Tech Leaders Programme will create valuable synergies and reinforce each other's impact in Djibouti. We aim to replicate the success of our pilot implementations, bringing technological empowerment to more LDCs." 

On March 5th, the Frontier Tech Leaders Programme will embark on the next phase of its journey, launching the FTL Machine Learning #2 Bootcamp.