- The STEM School in Addis Ababa provided students with 300 hours of immersive training, opportunities to engage with alumni, and field visits to aviation facilities.
ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia, August 28, 2024 – Ethiopian Airlines, Boeing [NYSE: BA] and ThinkYoung held the second edition of the STEM School, a program designed to equip young Ethiopians with the necessary skills in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) for better employment opportunities. Launched last year, this three-year program engages underserved youth from various regions of Ethiopia, nurturing their interest in higher education and future careers in aviation, engineering, and technology.
Twenty-eight high school students in grade 11 successfully completed the STEM School program in Addis Ababa this year, with 50% of the participants being girls. The selection process was closely coordinated with the Ministry of Education. Ethiopia places great emphasis on STEM education, evident through the introduction of its strategic policy for national science, technology, and mathematics education, as well as the promotion of science curriculum.
Bethel Teshome Sebsibe, a 17-year-old STEM School student shared her impression of the program: “Thanks to the STEM School, I have learned things that I never thought I was interested in. The relationship we have built with the students and teachers is helping me learn and improve.”
The STEM School took place at Ethiopian Aviation University, capitalizing on the expertise of Ethiopia's flagship carrier. The students had the opportunity to visit Ethiopian Airlines' cargo and maintenance, repair, and overhaul facilities, gaining real-world insights into the aviation industry.
“By investing in the education of our youth, we are investing in the future of Ethiopia," said Mesfin Tasew, Group Chief Executive Officer of Ethiopian Airlines. "This program empowers the next generation of innovators and problem-solvers by providing them with the essential skills needed to thrive in the rapidly evolving technological landscape. We are proud to witness the growth and accomplishments of these bright young minds and are confident they will contribute significantly to Ethiopia's future.”
Kuljit Ghata-Aura, President of Boeing Middle East, Türkiye, Africa, and Central Asia, commented: "The STEM School’s meticulously designed training program delivers a life-changing experience for students. It combines Boeing's global expertise in aerospace, Ethiopian Airlines' legacy as Africa’s leading carrier, and ThinkYoung's innovative approach to education. The program helps feed the talent pipeline supporting Ethiopia's booming aviation sector and the broader economy. We are excited to see how these young minds will shape the future of aviation in Africa".
Delila Kidanu, Director of ThinkYoung Africa, said: “Returning to Ethiopia to meet new students and reconnect with students from last year has been incredibly fulfilling. We are happy to support the future generation of STEM champions in Ethiopia and Africa. We look forward to partnering again with Boeing and Ethiopian Airlines next year and further developing this innovative program for and with young people”.
The comprehensive program this year spanned six weeks, from July 15 to August 23, providing students with over 300 hours of classes and hands-on training. Participants learned the fundamentals of STEM and acquired digital skills and knowledge, including coding, robotics, and artificial intelligence. Additionally, they developed essential soft skills such as teamwork and problem-solving. Job shadowing opportunities at Ethiopian Airlines allowed participants to experience various aviation roles and further enhance their newly acquired skills.
The program also offered valuable professional recommendations and networking opportunities. Twenty-four alumni from last year's STEM School joined this year's participants for a week of knowledge exchange. The students enjoyed several field visits, including a trip to Ethiopia Science Museum. Additionally, the participants engaged in career talks, mentorship and training sessions with professionals from Ethiopian Airlines and Boeing.
The program will resume its work with a new cohort of Ethiopian students next year.
