ThinkYoung, in partnership with Boeing [NYSE: BA], has expanded the reach of its global educational program – ThinkYoung STEM School – to Senegal. The initiative introduces school students to advanced digital skills and provides early insights into career pathways in science, technology, engineering and aviation.
Delivered with Steamtastic, the Senegal Drone Academy, and D-Hub, the course welcomed 49 participants aged 12–18, including 30 girls, on June 23-25 in Dakar.
The curriculum goes beyond coding to include practical modules on aviation and drones, artificial intelligence (AI), robotics and the metaverse, while reinforcing core skills such as teamwork, critical thinking and problem‑solving.
The ThinkYoung STEM School aligns with Senegal’s growing focus on science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education. Through initiatives, including specialized secondary-school science and technology tracks, teacher training in digital skills and extra-curricular activities for students, Senegal is building a future talent pipeline of engineers and programmers to support the country’s economic development.
The program also comes as Senegal is investing in aviation growth and connectivity.
“With the development of Blaise Diagne International Airport and Air Sénégal’s recent commitment to renew its fleet with nine Boeing 737 MAX airplanes, Senegal sees an opportunity to become one of the major gateways connecting West Africa with global markets”, said Henok Teferra Shawl, Boeing Africa managing director. “It will create high-value jobs in aviation, logistics and related industries. The ThinkYoung STEM School raises awareness of possible career paths and empowers young people with the future-ready skills needed to support Senegal’s growth plans.”
“The expansion of our ThinkYoung STEM School to Senegal marks an exciting milestone. Having trained nearly 2,000 young people in Africa, West Asia and Europe with our partner Boeing, the program exemplifies our mission to advance STEM education across continents”, said Andrea Gerosa, founder of ThinkYoung. “As technology and innovation continue to transform societies, it is essential to equip the next generation with the skills to think critically, navigate complexity and adapt to uncertainty. By investing in STEM education today and promoting career opportunities in STEM and aviation, we are helping young people build better futures for themselves, their communities, and beyond.”
Over the past decade, ThinkYoung and Boeing have reached more than 950 young people in Africa, with around 60% of participants being girls and young women.
About ThinkYoung
Founded in 2009 in Brussels, ThinkYoung is an independent, non-partisan, non-political, and non-profit think-tank dedicated to elevating youth voices. With a presence in Europe, Africa, Asia and now the United States, ThinkYoung works with partners across cultural, corporate, and government sectors to conduct research and design impact programs with and for young people. For more information, please contact Chichak Mammadova, es@thinkyong.eu, visit www.thinkyoung.eu and follow us on socials: Linkedin Youtube Instagram Facebook X
About Boeing Africa
A leading global aerospace company and top U.S. exporter, Boeing develops, manufactures and services commercial airplanes, defense products and space systems for customers in more than 150 countries. The company has been driving Africa’s aviation growth for over seven decades, with Boeing’s market share in African commercial aviation reaching 70%. Boeing has offices in Ethiopia and South Africa and field service representatives working with airlines across the continent. Over the last ten years, Boeing has invested $14.5 million in community partnerships with universities and non-profits in Africa. More than 58,500 people have participated in Boeing’s educational programs across the continent over the last five years alone. Learn more: https://www.boeing.africa