STEM Synergy, in partnership with Addis Ababa Science and Technology University (AASTU), organized the 10th Local Science and Engineering Fair on May 25, 2025, under the theme:
“Inculcating a Culture of Science and Engineering and Promoting Innovation.”
A total of 290 students, from Level 1 to Level 3, completed the 10-week structured STEM education program, including 156 female and 134 male participants.
The fair showcased 8 student-led projects developed by the 51 Level 3 students through a six-month project-based STEM training at the AASTU STEM Center. These projects addressed critical challenges in agriculture, water purification, transportation, and climate change.
All students received certificates of completion, recognizing their commitment and achievement.
Key guests included Mr. Abiyot Lakew (Country Director, STEM Synergy), Dr. Dereje Engida (President, AASTU), and Mr. Dereje (STEM Expert, Ministry of Education).
In his remarks, Mr. Abiyot Lakew emphasized the transformative power of project-based learning, stating: “Project-based STEM education connects learning to life—it empowers students to design, build, and innovate with purpose.”
He noted that this approach not only builds technical and analytical skills, but also fosters teamwork, creativity, and leadership among young learners. Mr. Abiyot also praised the students for addressing real-world problems with practical and socially relevant solutions, showcasing their readiness to contribute to national development through innovation.
He further acknowledged the vital role of institutions like AASTU in supporting such initiatives and extended appreciation to the facilitators and mentors who guided the students throughout the program.
Finally, Mr. Abiyot highlighted that the Arduino kits awarded to the top three teams, sponsored by STEM Synergy, are meant to promote continuous hands-on experimentation and to inspire ongoing curiosity and exploration in science and technology.
Dr. Dereje Engida, President of AASTU, welcomed participants and highlighted the university’s commitment to fostering innovation-driven education. He underscored AASTU’s role in nurturing young innovators capable of addressing Ethiopia’s development challenges and commended the STEM Synergy-AASTU partnership for its role in community engagement and education.
Mr. Dereje, representing the Ministry of Education, praised the creativity and relevance of the student projects. He emphasized the importance of such platforms in encouraging innovation and acknowledged the efforts of STEM Synergy and AASTU, noting that the Ministry has developed supportive frameworks to ensure STEM Centers across the country function sustainably and effectively.
