Boeing and FASESA expand ‘Pathways to Space’ STEM program to Kenya

May 11, 2025 in Companies, Science and Technology by Editor

The Future African Space Explorer’s STEM Academy (FASESA), in collaboration with aerospace giant Boeing [NYSE: BA], has launched the second edition of its “Pathways to Space” program, marking the initiative’s debut in Kenya and its return to Ethiopia and Nigeria.

Targeting up to 300 students aged 13 to 18 across state schools, the program is designed to ignite interest in space sciences and equip African youth with foundational skills in astronautics, engineering, and aerospace careers. Delivered in partnership with local educational and government institutions, the program will run for five months and includes weekly classes, spacewalk simulations, robotic arm control exercises, and a capstone project where students will produce a documentary on space exploration.

“The ‘Pathways to Space’ program leverages Boeing’s extensive experience in space alongside FASESA’s educational expertise to inspire the next generation to reach for the stars,” said Kuljit Ghata-Aura, President of Boeing Middle East, Türkiye, Africa, and Central Asia.

FASESA’s Executive Director, Sean Jacobs, emphasized the shared commitment to building Africa’s future STEM workforce. “This initiative reflects our dedication to nurturing young talent and advancing Africa’s presence in global space and STEM industries,” he said.

The program builds on the success of its 2024 edition, which involved over 300 students from Ethiopia, Nigeria, and Tanzania and culminated in the launch of a student-assembled high-altitude balloon.

The initiative comes at a time of growing momentum in Africa’s space sector. The African Union officially launched the African Space Agency (AfSA) in April 2025, creating a centralized framework for advancing space technology across the continent. Ethiopia is planning the launch of its third Earth observation satellite by 2026, Kenya is building on the success of its 2023 Taifa-1 satellite, and Nigeria has launched six satellites since establishing its space agency in 1999.

Boeing and FASESA aim to expand the program to additional African countries in the coming years. Since 2008, Boeing has invested $22 million across Africa through partnerships with over 40 non-profit organizations to support education and economic development.