Held over six weeks at Ethiopian Aviation University, the programme delivered more than 300 hours of immersive training that combined classroom learning, internships, career talks, and field visits to aviation facilities. Participants gained digital skills in coding, robotics, and artificial intelligence, alongside soft skills such as teamwork, communication, and problem-solving.

Hosted by Africa’s largest airline, the initiative capitalised on Ethiopian Airlines’ operational expertise, giving students hands-on access to cargo, maintenance, repair and overhaul facilities. “The completion of the Yabello Airport project demonstrates Ethiopian Airlines’ commitment to advancing aviation infrastructure that transforms lives and connects communities across Ethiopia,” said Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO Mr. Mesfin Tasew. “Through our collective endeavour with Boeing and ThinkYoung, witnessing our youth’s passion, creativity, and determination gives us great confidence that the future of Ethiopia and Africa at large is in capable and responsible hands.”

Boeing’s Henok Teferra Shawl, managing director for Africa, added: “Through hands-on experience and industry exposure, the programme helps students imagine futures they may not have thought possible. Ethiopia is home to one of Africa’s most dynamic aviation hubs, and initiatives like the STEM School help ensure that our future talent is ready to lead the continent forward.”

This year’s programme featured visits to Addis Ababa Science and Technology University’s Culture Development Center and the Ethiopia Science Museum, which houses Boeing’s permanent aerospace exhibit including a 787 Dreamliner flight simulator and models of the Space Launch System rocket and Starliner spacecraft. Alumni from the 2024 cohort also returned to mentor and support the new group of students.

ThinkYoung founder Andrea Gerosa said: “This programme serves as a blueprint for advancing STEM education for young people in Ethiopia and beyond. Over the past three years, our STEM School has provided a platform for young innovators and future aviation professionals to dream big and build a better future.”

For students like 17-year-old Rebiyat Abdellah, the experience was transformative: “Standing inside a real aircraft hangar and watching engineers work on jets made me feel like I was part of something big. It connected everything we are learning to the real world.”

Since 2023, Ethiopian Airlines, Boeing and ThinkYoung have delivered the STEM School annually in partnership with Ethiopia’s Ministry of Education, ensuring transparent student selection and alignment with national education priorities.