In a significant step toward enhancing vocational training, agritech, and inclusive development in Ethiopia, the Gudina Tumsa Foundation (GTF) and Innovate Future, Norwegian company, signed a binding Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish a strategic partnership aimed at empowering youth, women, and pastoralist communities across the country.
The MoU, signed by Mrs. Lensa Gudina, Managing Director of GTF, and Mr. Steinar Gulaker, Managing Director of Innovate Future, outlines a bold vision to collaborate in areas such as Learning Factories, vocational training, urban farming, hydroponics, coffee innovation, and rural development projects.
“This marks more than just the signing of an agreement; it is a joint venture designed by God,” said Mrs. Lensa Gudina during her emotional remarks. “We’re not just signing with donors; we are signing with brothers and sisters to work hand in hand, to share knowledge, experience, and faith,” she added. She also highlighted the historical and emotional ties between Ethiopia and Norway, recalling personal and family connections dating back to her father’s missionary work and friendships with Norwegian colleagues.
Mr. Steinar Gulaker expressed his happiness at collaborating with GTF. In a symbolic gesture, he presented the Norwegian flag to GTF as a gift, describing it as a symbol of faith, unity, and grace. He also shared traditional Norwegian milk chocolate with the attendees. “This flag is not just a national symbol—it is a cross, a reminder of grace, faith, and unity,” he said. “Let this partnership be a shared calling and a spiritual and practical evolution.”
The partnership centers on key transformative projects. GTF and Innovate Future will collaborate to upgrade vocational training centers known as Learning Factories with cutting-edge technologies such as automation, robotics, and lean manufacturing practices. This includes integrating digital transformation into existing programs and introducing dual training-production systems to equip youth with future-ready skills.
They will also implement innovative, water-efficient hydroponic and aeroponic farming technologies to enhance food security and nutrition. These systems will be deployed in schools and urban settings to support school feeding programs, reduce water usage by up to 95%, and provide training in sustainable agriculture.
To strengthen climate resilience and rural livelihoods, the partnership will establish large-scale fodder production systems that use minimal water while providing sustainable feed for livestock. These projects will double as job training opportunities for GTF program participants, particularly in pastoralist and rural areas.
Another key initiative is the development of a Coffee Innovation & Training Center. This center will provide barista training, coffee roasting and branding education, and immersive farm-to-cup experiences. The collaboration will also explore coffee tourism and create export opportunities through Innovate Future’s European networks.
Finally, the partnership will deliver integrated vocational training and employment creation programs specifically tailored for Ethiopia’s pastoralist communities. These efforts will be rooted in GTF’s existing presence and community trust, ensuring locally adapted and sustainable impact.
The MoU formalizes Innovate Future’s role as a core partner in GTF’s flagship project, the Integrated University-Based Agri-Tech, Craft and Industrial Training Center, bringing Norwegian expertise and a shared commitment to sustainable, scalable impact.
The agreement, valid for three years with automatic renewal, is expected to catalyze innovative pilot projects, strengthen rural resilience, and promote inclusive economic development.
