Africa's young innovators compete at the third annual ExxonMobil Foundation STEM Africa regional finals

Access to quality STEM education remains a challenge for many students across Africa, limiting opportunities to develop the skills needed for future careers and economic growth. Through the ExxonMobil Foundation STEM Africa program, the ExxonMobil Foundation is helping expand access to hands-on science, technology, engineering and mathematics education while preparing young people to become the innovators and problem-solvers of tomorrow.

That effort was on full display at the 2026 ExxonMobil Foundation STEM Africa Regional Finals, hosted in partnership with Junior Achievement (JA) Africa during Africa Energy Week 2026 in Cape Town, South Africa.

The event brought together 16 outstanding students from Angola, Mozambique, Namibia and Nigeria, selected from more than 9,600 participants across the four countries. After advancing through STEM challenges, zonal competitions and national Innovation Camps, the students earned the opportunity to present solutions addressing some of Africa's most pressing challenges, including energy access, water security, food production and community development.

From classroom learning to real-world solutions

Students applied STEM concepts to design practical solutions that could make a difference in their communities while gaining experience in innovation, teamwork, critical thinking and public speaking. The finalists presented their ideas before industry leaders, energy professionals and government representatives from across Africa attending Africa Energy Week.

Building Africa's future STEM workforce

The regional competition represents a milestone in the broader STEM Africa initiative, which provides students with mentorship, innovation challenges and exposure to STEM career pathways. Through its community partnership with JA Africa, the ExxonMobil Foundation is helping create opportunities for students who may otherwise have limited access to high-quality STEM learning experiences.