- The annual program organized by Ethiopian Airlines and Boeing provides students with training, job shadowing, career talks and field visits to aviation facilities.
ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia, August 24, 2026 – Ethiopian Airlines and Boeing [NYSE: BA] have successfully concluded the fourth edition of their STEM School program, equipping grade 11 students with the skills and inspiration to pursue careers in aviation and engineering.
Running from July 13 to August 21 at the Ethiopian Aviation University, the six-week program provided participants — half of whom were young women — with over 300 hours of immersive learning. The initiative, which draws students from all regions of Ethiopia, combines rigorous classroom instruction with internships, mentorship sessions with Ethiopian Airlines and Boeing professionals and field visits to aviation facilities.
The curriculum blended digital skills, including coding, robotics, artificial intelligence (AI) and virtual reality (VR), with essential soft skills such as teamwork, communication and problem-solving. Leveraging the operational expertise of Africa’s largest airline, students gained firsthand exposure to Ethiopian Airlines’ cargo, maintenance, repair and overhaul and Ethiopian Aviation University facilities for hands-on learning.
Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO Mr. Mesfin Tasew said: “Working on youth education is a direct investment in Ethiopia’s future. This initiative prepares tomorrow’s leaders and creative thinkers by equipping them with the essential skills needed to succeed in a rapidly changing world. We are honored to see these talented young people succeed, and we are confident that they will play a vital role in shaping industries. We also thank Boeing for partnering with Ethiopian Airlines on such important initiatives.”
For students like Yoftahe Belete, an 18‑year‑old, the program opened doors to the industry: “We observed how airplanes are maintained, undergo multiple inspections, and how technicians take care of them.”