Ethiopian Airlines Collaborates with Boeing, Think Young to Empower Ethiopian Youth through STEM Program
Ethiopian Airlines, Africa’s leading aviation group, in collaboration with Boeing and Think Young, has successfully completed the second edition of the STEM School program.
This initiative, which is targeted at underserved high school students across Ethiopia, is designed to equip young minds with essential skills in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), setting the stage for future innovators and leaders in the country.
This year, 28 students in grade 11, with a commendable 50% female participation rate, completed the rigorous program.
Over three years, the STEM School program fosters academic growth and a passion for higher education among students from various regions.
The selection process, conducted in partnership with the Ministry of Education, ensures that the brightest students are given the opportunity to excel.
Mr. Mesfin Tasew, Group Chief Executive Officer of Ethiopian Airlines, emphasised the importance of the program, stating, “By investing in the education of our youth, we are investing in the future of Ethiopia.
“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, also highlighted the program’s impact, noting, “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, reflected on the program’s success, expressing her satisfaction with the progress made, “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, students were immersed in the core principles of STEM and gained valuable skills in coding, robotics, and artificial intelligence.
Additionally, they developed crucial soft skills such as teamwork and advanced problem-solving.
The program, hosted by Ethiopian Aviation University, leveraged Ethiopian Airlines’ specialised knowledge, providing participants with exclusive access to the airline’s cargo and maintenance operations, offering them a hands-on perspective on the aviation industry.
Bethel Teshome Sebsibe, a 17-year-old participant, shared her experience, saying, “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.”
With the success of this year’s program, the initiative is set to continue, with plans to welcome a new cohort of students next year.
This collaborative effort between Ethiopian Airlines, Boeing, and Think Young underscores the importance of recognising the transformative power of education in shaping the future of young minds in Africa and beyond.
