ExxonMobil Foundation Empowers 1,500 Students Through STEM Programme Across Africa
In a bold move to drive scientific innovation and digital literacy among African youths, the ExxonMobil Foundation, in collaboration with Junior Achievement Africa, has launched its 2025 Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Africa programme, aimed at empowering over 1,500 secondary school students across the continent.
The initiative, which was officially flagged off in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital, seeks to spark early interest in STEM careers by equipping students with practical skills, critical thinking abilities, and collaborative experience. The programme spans four countries — Nigeria, Angola, Namibia, and Mozambique — where ExxonMobil operates.
A blend of weekly quizzes, regional STEM competitions, and hands-on innovation camps has been designed to deepen students’ understanding of core scientific concepts while nurturing a spirit of creativity and teamwork.
Speaking during the launch event, the Executive Director of Junior Achievement Nigeria, Ugonna Achebe, emphasised the need to expand the programme’s reach by engaging a fresh cohort of learners.
“Our goal is to empower a new generation of digitally savvy leaders,” Achebe stated. “The students participating this year are entirely new. Those who were part of last year’s programme are not being repeated, as we want to touch as many young lives as possible.”
Achebe added that beyond academic performance, the programme is also tailored to shape the mindset of young people toward becoming conscientious business leaders who are ready to contribute meaningfully to nation-building.
Also speaking at the event, Community Relations and Operations Manager, Nigel Cookey-Gam, who represented the Managing Director of ExxonMobil’s Nigerian subsidiaries, Shane Harris, explained the rationale behind the Foundation’s investment in STEM education.
“STEM is an area where many students, especially girls, often shy away. So we’re intentionally trying to build their confidence and interest,” Cookey-Gam said.
He noted that the initiative is part of a broader, multi-country effort by the ExxonMobil Foundation to strengthen STEM education wherever it operates. “It’s not just about winning contests; it’s about giving young minds the exposure and tools they need to thrive in a tech-driven world.”
Cookey-Gam also revealed that the programme has already impacted more than 6,000 students across the continent. Notably, participants in Nigeria recorded an impressive 212 per cent improvement in their STEM knowledge quiz scores — a testament to the programme’s effectiveness.
Highlighting the programme’s next steps, he disclosed that top-performing students from the 2024 edition will be selected to represent Nigeria at the forthcoming regional industry conference in South Africa, where they will present innovative STEM-based solutions.
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In a goodwill message delivered at the event, Director of Monitoring and Evaluation, Maria Okhilo, who represented the Secretary of the FCT Secondary Education Board, Mohamed Sani, commended the organisers for enriching the academic landscape of the Federal Capital Territory.
“Our students have gained a fresh perspective on scientific exploration and entrepreneurship,” she said. “Thanks to this programme, they are now seeing their environment and everyday problems through the lens of innovation.”
As the continent continues its push toward knowledge-based economies, initiatives like the ExxonMobil STEM Africa programme signal a significant step forward in preparing the next generation for the challenges and opportunities of the future.
