ExxonMobil Foundation launches STEM, AI skills programme

WINDHOEK, 03 JUN (NAMPA) - The ExxonMobil Foundation, in partnership with Junior Achievement (JA) Africa and the Mindsinaction STEAM Centre, has launched the 2026 STEM Africa Programme aimed at equipping young Africans with science, technology, engineering, mathematics (STEM) and artificial intelligence (AI) skills.
The programme, known as STEM Africa 2.0, seeks to equip an additional 4 000 students aged between 14 and 17 across Angola, Mozambique, Namibia and Nigeria with skills needed for the digital economy, according to a statement issued on Wednesday.
The initiative builds on a partnership that has already reached more than 10 000 young people in the four countries.
Participants will take part in STEM and AI quizzes, zonal competitions, national innovation camps and a continental showcase at the Africa Energy Week Conference.
JA Africa President and Chief Executive Officer Simi Nwogugu said the programme is aimed at preparing young people for future opportunities in technology and innovation.
“The future of Africa will be shaped by the ideas, ingenuity, and leadership of its young people,” she said.
Nwogugu added that the initiative was not only strengthening STEM competencies, but also creating pathways into artificial intelligence and innovation.
ExxonMobil Foundation President Alvin Abraham said investment in young people was key to promoting long-term economic growth.
“We believe that investing in young people is one of the most powerful ways to drive long-term economic growth and resilience,” he said.
Abraham said the programme would help bridge the skills gap and enable young people to engage with emerging technologies shaping the future of work.
According to the statement, the programme also seeks to promote inclusion by encouraging participation from underserved communities and maintaining gender balance across its activities.
(NAMPA)
MWY/AS