ExxonMobil, JA Africa launch STEM Africa 2.0

Allexer Namundjembo JA Africa, with support from the ExxonMobil Foundation and the Mindsinaction STEAM Centre, has launched the 2026 ExxonMobil Foundation STEM Africa Program to equip young Africans with critical skills in science, technology, engineering, mathematics (STEM) and artificial intelligence (AI). The 2026 edition, dubbed STEM Africa 2.0, will target 4,000 additional students aged 14 to 17 across the continent. It builds on a partnership that has already reached more than 10,000 young people in Angola, Mozambique, Namibia and Nigeria.

The launch comes as Africa’s youth population grows rapidly while access to STEM and digital skills remains limited. The program combines hands-on learning, mentorship from industry professionals and real-world problem-solving to prepare students for emerging sectors such as energy, sustainability and digital innovation. Participants will move through a four-phase learning experience that includes STEM and AI quizzes, zonal competitions, national innovation camps and a final continental showcase at Africa Energy Week Conference.