Official Guidelines & Membership

Ethiopian Data Science Society (EtDaSS) Guidelines

Membership requirements, registration guidelines, fee structures, and governance criteria for advancing data science and AI across Ethiopia.

Purpose of the Society

The Ethiopian Data Science Society (EtDaSS) is a non-profit, non-governmental, and non-partisan society dedicated to advancing the field of data science, artificial intelligence, and advanced analytics in Ethiopia.

The primary purpose of the society is to build a collaborative, ethical, and sustainable national ecosystem by connecting researchers, practitioners, students, and organizations. EtDaSS aims to build local technical capacity, promote data-driven innovation, establish standards for ethical data usage, and support policy development to foster national digital transformation.

Membership Categories & Criteria

EtDaSS offers four distinct membership categories suited for individual practitioners, students, corporate organizations, and distinguished leaders:

1

Individual Membership

  • Academic qualifications in Health, Data Science, Statistics, Computer Science,Information Science, IT, AI, Math, or related fields (preferable, but open to all interested).
  • At least some professional experience in data science, analytics, or research.
  • Demonstrate an active interest in promoting data science.
  • Must possess a valid Fayda ID / National ID or Passport.
2

Student Membership

  • Enrolled in an accredited university, college, institution.
  • Undergoing studies in CS, IS, Data Science, Statistics, Math, AI, Engineering, or related fields.
  • Valid student identification card or enrollment letter.
  • Must possess a valid Fayda ID / National ID or Passport.
3

Corporate Membership

  • Legally registered entities engaged in technology, analytics, or digital innovation.
  • Official designation/nomination letter for an assigned focal person.
  • Commitment to supporting the society's objectives and ethical standards.
  • Focal person must possess a valid Fayda ID / National ID or Passport.
4

Honorary Membership

  • Conferred upon leaders with exceptional contributions to data science or AI.
  • Distinguished research, mentorship, innovation, or policy advocacy.
  • Nominated and approved by the society's governing body.
  • Exempt from standard required fees (voluntary contributions accepted).

Registration & Fee Structure

Membership CategoryRegistration FeeAnnual Membership Fee
Individual Membership300 ETB1,800 ETB / year
Student Membership100 ETB960 ETB / year
Corporate Membership1,000 ETB4,800 ETB / year
Honorary MembershipNone*No fee*

*Remark: Honorary members may contribute fees voluntarily if willing.

Individual Application & Verification Process

Individual and student applicants complete the online form and upload required compiled documentation (Max File size: 3MB per PDF):

PDF Upload 1

Identity & Qualification

  • Fayda / National ID or Passport (Mandatory)
  • Degree/Diploma Certificate OR Valid Student ID
  • Official Academic Transcript / Student Copy (Optional)
  • Relevant Data Science, IT, or AI Certifications (Optional)
PDF Upload 2

Work Experience & Support

Optional / Additional

  • Work experience letters or recommendation letters
  • Proof of data science project involvement or publications
  • Any additional supporting documents

Corporate Registration & Verification Process

Organizations, businesses, and institutions joining as Corporate Members follow a dedicated verification procedure to establish institutional representation:

1

Legal Business Registration Verification

Provide official legal registration documents or organizational trade license under applicable laws.

2

Official Focal Person Designation

Submit an official nomination letter or email designating a official representative to act as the focal contact with the society.

3

Representative Identification & Verification

Attach the focal person’s valid Fayda / National ID or Passport along with corporate verification credentials.

Digital Membership & ID Verification

Scannable QR Membership ID

Every verified member receives a unique digital membership profile featuring a dynamic QR code for instant identity and active status validation.

Annual Renewal Cycle

Membership credentials remain active for one calendar year from approval and are updated upon payment of the annual subscription fee.

Code of Ethics & Governance

All individual, student, and corporate members agree to abide by the society's constitution, code of ethics, and data protection standards. Any issues or grievances are resolved through established Conflict Resolution Procedures as specified in the governance rules.