FAST4Future Launches its Third Synchronous STEM Festival Across Four African Nations

Botswana • South Africa • Zambia • Nigeria — October 6, 2025

In a landmark celebration of science, innovation, and education, the FAST4Future Consortium today hosted a Synchronous STEM Festival that brought together hundreds of students, educators, and researchers across Botswana, South Africa, Zambia, and Nigeria.

The festival, held simultaneously in all four countries, aimed to inspire the next generation of scientists and innovators, with a special emphasis on space science, astronomy, and STEM-driven solutions to societal challenges.

Events were hosted at partner universities and institutions, including the University of Botswana, Botswana International University of Science and Technology (BIUST), the South African National Space Agency (SANSA), the University of Zambia, Copperbelt University, Zambia, and the University of Nigeria Nsuka in Nigeria. Activities ranged from interactive science exhibitions, demonstrations, space-science talks, student competitions, and hands-on experiments, to career mentorship sessions led by African scientists and engineers.

The FAST4Future project, funded by the European Union, aims to empower African youth through space science, astronomy, and advanced STEM education. By linking science outreach with research, the project highlights how space-age tools can tackle real-world problems in health, climate, and innovation.

“Today’s synchronous festival embodies our belief that Africa’s future in space science and technology is bright, collaborative, and inclusive,” said Prof. Taye Demissie, Chair of the FAST4Future Dissemination and Outreach Committee. “By inspiring young minds across borders, we are igniting curiosity and building a pipeline of future innovators.”

Students from secondary schools, science clubs, and community academies participated enthusiastically, studying about astronomy projects in Africa, environmental sensors, and coding skills. The festival also underscored the role of partnerships among African universities, governments, private sectors, and international agencies in strengthening Africa’s role in the global STEM ecosystem.

For photos, highlights, and livestream replays, visit: https://cesst.org and follow the hashtags #FAST4Future #STEMFestival2025 #AfricaInSpace.