In a major step forward for the nation's scientific development, the Ethiopian Space Science Society (ESSS) has officially launched its Youth Wing. The initiative aims to integrate the younger generation into the country's rapidly growing space science and technology ecosystem.
ADDIS ABABA — In a major step forward for the nation's scientific development, the Ethiopian Space Science Society (ESSS) has officially launched its Youth Wing. The initiative aims to integrate the younger generation into the country's rapidly growing space science and technology ecosystem.
Image: ESSS Youth wing launch event
Speaking at the inaugural program, ESSS Patron, H.E. Demeke Mekonnen, reflected on the society's rich 22-year history. He highlighted ESSS's instrumental role in advocating for space science and building critical infrastructure. H.E. noted that facilities like the Entoto Observatory have become foundational for local research, and he drew special attention to the society's current flagship initiative, the Lalibela Research and Astronomical Observatory Project.
The newly established Youth Wing is designed to serve as a vital platform for young people pursuing various career paths, allowing them to bring diverse skills to the space science sector. Organizers emphasized that the initiative will instill a lifelong commitment among the youth, empowering them to continuously contribute to their country's technological and scientific advancement.
During the ceremony, ESSS Managing Director Mr. Kirubel Menberu presented deep insights into the society's trajectory and its current flagship projects. He placed a strong emphasis on the "community spirit" of the society, noting that collective effort is what drives Ethiopia's space ambitions forward.
The launch event also marked the beginning of a new strategic partnership. Dr. Kirubel Chanyalew, representing Itena, took the stage to express the organization's enthusiasm for working alongside the ESSS.
MOU signing Between ESSS and iTena
The program concluded with an official Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signing ceremony between the ESSS and iTena Digital Medicine, an Addis Ababa-based healthcare innovation company known for its technology-focused approach to health delivery. This landmark agreement pioneers a new way forward in space and medicine collaboration, specifically aiming to empower professionals to pursue emerging careers in space medicine. The agreement, which promises to bolster this unique cross-disciplinary collaboration within the broader science and technology ecosystem, was signed by ESSS Managing Director Mr. Kirubel Menberu and Itena General Manager Dr. Khalid Addulkadir.
