Thursday, August 29, 2024 Ethiopian Airlines, Africa’s leading aviation group, is championing STEM education in Ethiopia through a strategic partnership with Boeing and Think Young. This year, the trio successfully concluded the second edition of their innovative STEM School program, which saw 28 high school students from grade 11 participate, achieving an impressive 50% female representation. The program is structured over three years and is specifically tailored to support underserved youth from various regions across Ethiopia.
By fostering a deep interest in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), the initiative aims to equip students with critical skills needed for future success. The selection of participants is meticulously conducted in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, ensuring that students with the most potential receive this unique opportunity to excel. Through this initiative, Ethiopian Airlines, along with its partners, is not only enhancing the educational prospects of young Ethiopians but also laying a solid foundation for the country’s advancement in the STEM fields, preparing a skilled workforce to meet future challenges and opportunities.
“By investing in the education of our youth, we are investing in the future of Ethiopia,” stated Mr. 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 Think Young’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”. Throughout the program, participants delved deeply into the essential principles of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM).
They boosted their digital skills by engaging in coding, robotics, and artificial intelligence. Simultaneously, they developed crucial soft skills such as teamwork and advanced problem-solving capabilities. 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, hosted by Ethiopian Aviation University and enriched by Ethiopian Airlines’ expertise, gave participants a unique glimpse into the aviation sector. The program offered students exclusive access to the airline’s cargo operations, as well as its maintenance, repair, and overhaul facilities.
This hands-on experience provided a practical understanding of the industry. Looking ahead, the initiative is poised to continue its impact by welcoming a new group of Ethiopian students in the coming year, furthering its commitment to fostering interest and skills in STEM fields..
