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UNESCO Hands Over STEM Conference Equipment to Ethiopian Ministry of Education

UNESCO Hands Over STEM Conference Equipment to Ethiopian Ministry of Education
Dr Salifou Abdouolaye hands over to Mr. Derje Awgichew, STEM Expert

12.03.2025 -Addis Ababa, Ethiopia – The UNESCO Liaison Office to the African Union and UNECA officially handed over six 3D printers and sixteen robotics kits to the Ethiopian Ministry of Education, reinforcing its commitment to advancing STEM education in Ethiopia. The handover marked a significant step in implementing the outcomes of the Continental Conference on Transforming STEM in Africa, held in Addis Ababa last November.

The conference highlighted the importance of practical learning experiences, particularly through the STEM Experience Hub, where students and educators engaged with cutting-edge technologies. The immersive interactions with 3D printing and robotics showcased their potential to revolutionize science, technology, and engineering education.

Dr. Salifou Abdoulaye, UNESCO's Chief of Education, commended the Ministry’s dedication, stating, "We commend the Ministry of Education for its steadfast commitment to STEM advancement. Through its support, over 370 students benefited from immersive experiences at the STEM Hub, gaining valuable exposure to emerging technologies that are shaping the future. Such initiatives are critical in nurturing a generation equipped with the skills to drive scientific and technological progress."

Representatives from the Ministry of Education included Ms. Selam Alemu, Head of the Community Engagement and Indigenous Knowledge Desk, and Mr. Derje Awgichew, STEM Expert. Both expressed profound gratitude to UNESCO for the generous donation and assured continued support for UNESCO’s efforts in advancing STEM education in Ethiopia.

By equipping STEM centres with these resources, UNESCO and the Ministry of Education reaffirmed their commitment to fostering innovation and skill development, ensuring that Ethiopian students have access to quality, hands-on STEM learning opportunities.