ISTANBUL, TURKIYE, March 18, 2025 — The Frontier Tech Leaders (FTL) Programme proudly marks the successful graduation of the first cohort of the Afghanistan Machine Learning Bootcamp. The virtual event, attended by esteemed guests, celebrated the achievements of participants who completed the intensive training and showcased their innovative capstone projects.

FTL Afghanistan received over 450 applications, selecting 95 successful participants—25 women and 69 men. Participants received comprehensive technical and soft skills training, supplemented by community activities to prepare them for future jobs. A total of 41 participants completed the Bootcamp, developing 13 capstone projects aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Launched in 2023 at the 5th UN Conference on LDCs in Doha, the FTL Programme was established by UNDP ICPSD and the United Nations Technology Bank for the Least Developed Countries (UNTB), with the support of the Government of Türkiye. It aims to raise a new generation of tech specialists to develop digital solutions for the LDCs and strengthen local capacities toward the SDGs. The Afghanistan Machine Learning Bootcamp, launched in November 2024, provided specialized training in Python, Machine Learning, entrepreneurship, and leadership, empowering participants to develop AI-driven solutions for pressing societal challenges.

The graduation ceremony brought together key stakeholders, including representatives from UNDP ICPSD, UNTB, UNDP Afghanistan, and Government of Türkiye, to recognise the participants’ efforts and achievements.

Mr. Erhan Sırt, Head of the Multilateral Development Cooperation Department, Presidency of Strategy and Budget of Türkiye, emphasized the importance of investing in young talent, stating “Türkiye firmly believes that investing in young talent is crucial for progress. The FTL programme reflects our commitment to nurturing future leaders and empowering emerging tech talent in LDCs.”

Mr. Sahba Sobhani, Director of UNDP ICPSD, highlighted the transformative impact of the program, adding “FTL graduates are not just gaining skills—they are building tech ecosystems in their countries. We are proud to support Afghan youth in leveraging digital skills to transform industries and communities.”

Ms. Doel Mukerjee, Deputy Resident Representative of UNDP Afghanistan, emphasized the role of technology in shaping Afghanistan’s future, stating, “This graduation ceremony marks not just the completion of training but the beginning of a journey. Our graduates are now part of a growing community of innovators, ready to apply their skills to tackle real-world challenges and contribute to Afghanistan’s sustainable development.”

Ms. Federica Irene Falomi, Economic Affairs Officer at the United Nations Technology Bank (UNTB) said “UNTB is proud to support the FTL Programme’s mission to cultivate role models and changemakers. Today’s graduates are poised to become catalysts for innovation and progress in their communities.”

Tahmina Rafat, a graduate from the programme, shared her experience, stating, “FTL has empowered us with the tools and mindset to leverage technology for the greater good of our communities.” 

Another graduate Sultan Mansour Raofi also shared his perspective on the programme’s impact stating, “The knowledge and skills we have acquired will empower us to create innovative solutions, drive technological advancements, and make a lasting impact in our community.”

As part of the ceremony, the top three capstone projects were presented, demonstrating impactful applications of AI in addressing key development challenges. The projects tackled issues such as disaster risk reduction, healthcare accessibility, and sustainable agriculture, showcasing the potential of technology in advancing the SDGs.

Certificates of completion were awarded to all graduates, with special recognition given to outstanding performers for their dedication and accomplishments. The graduates will continue their journey with mentorship from global tech professionals, academia, and industry leaders.

Many of the programme’s alumni have already started sharing their knowledge with their peers through local community activities. These local efforts will contribute to building technological capacity and fostering sustainable progress in Afghanistan.

The FTL Programme has achieved significant milestones, with 107 graduates from 17 LDCs, 66 capstone projects developed, and 640 young people trained in community activities. Following the success of this first cohort, the FTL Programme looks forward to expanding its impact, with future cohorts set to further bridge the digital skills gap in LDCs. The second Afghanistan Machine Learning Bootcamp is already in development, promising more opportunities for young innovators eager to shape the future through technology.