Learning to code in Ethiopia: what do A2SV and local communities really offer, and what worked for you?

If you want to learn programming in Ethiopia, these are the communities and programs worth knowing about. A2SV (Africa to Silicon Valley) - Started in Ethiopia in 2019 and trains high-potential university students for software engineering roles at major tech companies. - It began at Addis Ababa University and later extended to Addis Ababa Science and Technology University. - Training covers algorithms and data structures, soft skills and real projects. Students have built local tools, for example TrackSym and HakimHub. - The in-person program has been limited to students at specific universities. A remote program is open to African students and graduates from other universities. Eligibility and application requirements change between cohorts, so check the official announcement. Campus communities - GDG on Campus groups, for example at HiLCoE in Addis Ababa, run events such as an introduction to competitive programming. A practical tip: competitive programming practice is a common route into A2SV selection, but the exact thresholds posted on Telegram may be outdated. Your turn: which communities, courses or study groups helped you, were they free, how did you get your first project or job, and what would you tell a beginner in a smaller city?