The Future African Space Explorer’s STEM Academy (FASESA) and Boeing have announced the launch of the second edition of the “Pathways to Space” program in Africa. The program returned to Ethiopia and Nigeria and was launched for the first time in Kenya on May 6, reaching up to 300 state school students aged 13-18. It works with local educational and government institutions in Ethiopia, Kenya, and Nigeria.
“We are proud to continue our partnership with Boeing. This program reflects our shared dedication to building Africa’s future workforce in space and other STEM fields,” said Sean Jacobs, executive director at FASESA, in a press release.
The “Pathways to space” program
For five months, students will participate in weekly classes, hands-on simulations of spacewalks, and robotic arm control while working on a capstone documentary about the importance of space exploration. Additionally, they will understand what it takes to become an astronaut and learn about different career paths in the space industry.
This program aims to provide young people with an immersive and interactive learning experience in space sciences and astronautics, equppiping students with necessary skills to succeed in an aerospace career.
FASESA and Boeing plan to expand the reach of the ‘Pathways to Space’ program to other African countries in the coming years.
Space exploration aspirations in Africa
The pathways to space align with broader space goals in Africa, including the launch of the African Space Agency (AfSA) last month. Headquartered in Cairo, AfSA is set to coordinate space activities across the AU’s 55 member states and foster international partnerships.
National programs are also gaining momentum. Ethiopia plans to launch its third Earth observation satellite by 2026 and aims for ten satellites by 2035. Kenya’s space agency, established in 2017, launched its first satellite in 2018 and the operational Taifa-1 in 2023. Nigeria, active since 1999, has launched six satellites, steadily expanding its capabilities.
Image: FASESA
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