STEM Summer Bootcamp Kicks Off at Haramaya University, Empowering Future Innovators
Haramaya University (HU) has officially launched its highly anticipated STEM Summer Bootcamp for secondary school students, an initiative designed to cultivate the next generation of Ethiopian scientists, engineers, and innovators.
HU’s Community Engagement and Industry Linkage Directorate and the Entrepreneurship and Technology Promotion Directorate, commenced the program at the University’s Resource Center.
This year’s boot camp is set to host two parallel, intensive programs, as outlined by Dr. Henok Desalegn, Coordinator of the STEM Center. “We are excited to offer both a STEM Boot Camp, which will provide hands-on, laboratory-based training in Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics, and Information Technology, and a Python Programming Boot Camp, aimed at introducing students to one of the world’s most vital and accessible programming languages,” Dr. Desalegn stated.
Each program welcomes 50 exceptional students, meticulously selected from 20 different schools across the Harari Region, Dire Dawa City Administration, Maya City, and the HU Model School. This brings a total of 100 bright young minds to the HU campus, ready to delve into the exciting frontiers of science, technology, and innovation.
Dr. Henok emphasized that the purpose of these programs extends beyond conventional instruction. “They are specifically designed to foster students’ interest in STEM fields, cultivate creativity and innovation, and enhance their academic and technological competence,” he explained.
Through these immersive, hands-on experiences, students will not only build foundational knowledge but also acquire crucial 21st-century skills such as critical thinking, collaboration, communication, and problem-solving. These competencies are vital for success in both academic pursuits and future professional environments.
Furthermore, participants will receive fundamental training in computer literacy and digital tools, laying essential groundwork for navigating a technology-driven world and preparing them to contribute significantly to Ethiopia’s digital transformation.
The six-week training will conclude on August 31, 2025, will feature a dynamic curriculum of lectures, discussions, and laboratory-supported theoretical and practical lessons tailored to enhance the students’ skills and knowledge.
Mr. Kemal Kasim, Director of the HU Community Engagement and Industry Linkage Directorate, underscored the long-term vision behind the initiative. “The aim of this training is to develop young leaders, scientific researchers, entrepreneurs, and renowned intellectuals by significantly enhancing the students’ skills,” Mr. Kemal stated. “We are committed to enabling these students to be competitive at regional, national, and international levels in their future careers, ultimately benefiting themselves and our nation.”
Mr. Kemal reiterated that Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education is the cornerstone of the country’s development. He highlighted Haramaya University’s ongoing commitment to this principle, noting its history of providing various STEM-focused trainings to local schools.
He further emphasized that the current boot camp is a continuation of this vital effort, delivered with special attention by highly qualified university teachers. Mr. Kemal urged the participating students to fully leverage this unique opportunity, engage actively, respect the learning process, and acquire valuable skills and knowledge to contribute to their communities and country.
Reporter: Shemsedin Mohammed Photographer: Tewodros Lishan
HU Public and International Relations Directorate