JA Africa and the ExxonMobil Foundation have launched the 2026 ExxonMobil Foundation STEM Africa Programme, an initiative aimed at equipping young Africans with science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) and artificial intelligence (AI) skills.
The programme builds on an existing partnership that has already reached more than 10,000 young people across Angola, Mozambique, Namibia and Nigeria. The 2026 edition, known as STEM Africa 2.0, introduces AI-focused learning pathways and seeks to equip an additional 4,000 students aged between 14 and 17 with the skills required to thrive in a rapidly changing digital economy.
The initiative comes at a critical time for Africa, where the youth population continues to expand while access to STEM and digital education remains limited. By combining practical learning, mentorship from industry experts and real-world problem-solving, the programme is designed to prepare young people for opportunities in sectors including energy, sustainability and digital innovation.
Participants will take part in a structured four-phase learning experience featuring STEM and AI quizzes, zonal competitions, national innovation camps and a final continental showcase at the Africa Energy Week Conference. The programme aims to move beyond classroom learning by enabling students to develop practical solutions to real-life challenges while strengthening confidence, collaboration and critical thinking skills.
“The future of Africa will be shaped by the ideas, ingenuity, and leadership of its young people,” said Simi Nwogugu, President and CEO of JA Africa. “Through STEM Africa 2.0, we are not only strengthening STEM competencies but also opening pathways into artificial intelligence and innovation. This is about ensuring that young people across the continent are prepared to lead, create, and solve problems that matter, both locally and globally.”
Alvin Abraham, President of the ExxonMobil Foundation, added: “We believe that investing in young people is one of the most powerful ways to drive long-term economic growth and resilience. By supporting STEM Africa 2.0, we are helping to bridge the skills gap and enabling young people to engage with emerging technologies that will define the future of work.”
Organisers said the programme’s inclusion of AI literacy in secondary school STEM education reflects the growing importance of emerging technologies in the global workforce. The initiative also aims to strengthen links between education and employability by exposing participants to career opportunities in high-growth industries and building a pipeline of future innovators across the continent.
In addition to technical training, the programme places emphasis on inclusion, with a focus on participation from underserved communities and gender balance across all activities. A monitoring and evaluation framework will also track learning outcomes, behavioural changes and long-term progression into STEM-related careers and education pathways.
Young people, educators and partners interested in participating in the ExxonMobil Foundation STEM Africa Programme can access more information through the programme’s official platforms.
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