Ethio Telecom signed a strategic partnership agreement with Addis Abeba University for a project that allows digital grading, reporting, and smart learning capabilities at the Sidist Kilo Campus on Mekude Bentylrgu St. The smart campus project kicked off last week also incorporates digitization of outpatient, laboratory testing and appointments  at the Tikur Anbessa Specialised Hospital. Frehiwot Tamiru, CEO of the state-owned telecommunications operator, indicated plans to enable all education-related payments, such as registration, tuition fees, and alumni-related services, through the Telebirr mobile money service. The project will automate 50 classrooms, campus gates, administration buildings, museums, cafeterias, libraries, and student and teacher dormitories.QR codes and biometric tools will also be ushered in to enable smart parking and digital customer managment services. Samuel Kifle(PhD), acting President of the University(AAU), expressed his hope that adopting digital solutions will hasten the path towards academic autonomy and improved quality at the university. The smart campus project is part of a large ambition by the government towards the Digital Ethiopia 2025 project spearheaded by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed(PhD). He announced plans to form a national council that oversee its execution two months ago.