ExxonMobil Mozambique developing STEM skills with robotics training in Maputo

• 200 students and 36 teachers from 12 schools in Maputo received robotics training
• STEM robotics program to expand to Gaza and Inhambane in 2023

The Science Technology Engineering and Math (STEM) program was launched by the Deputy Minister of Education and Human Development, Manuel Banzo, earlier this year where teachers were trained and recognized for their efforts in supporting this extra-curricular activity. The ASTROBOT program involves assembling and programming of robots to execute tasks in order to equip the students with programming, teamwork and social skills as well as enhancing their interest in STEM related fields.

This year’s competition included the schools of Francisco Manyanga, Maguanine, Josina Machel, Estrela Vermelha, Noroeste 1, Laulane, Machava, Lhanguene, Matola, Liberdade, Força do Povo, Malhazine and Zona Verde.

“We are pleased to support this important initiative for a second year and announce the expansion of the program in 2023 to the provinces of Gaza and Inhambane.” said Arne Gibbs, General Manager-Midstream for Mozambique, Rovuma Venture. “Education is a key pillar of the ExxonMobil’s community strategy in the countries where we operate and this innovative program supports the students’ development while promoting STEM in public schools.”

"Robotics and programming are important tools for learning and for developing problem-solving skills, and are also a path to the modern professions”, affirmed Zeferino Martins, president of Osuwela. “It is a privilege to be able to support young Mozambicans to open up new perspectives for their future”.

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About ExxonMobil

ExxonMobil, is one of the largest publicly traded international oil and Gas Company, uses technology and innovation to help meet the world’s growing energy needs. In Mozambique, ExxonMobil holds a 25 percent indirect interest in Area 4 and will lead the construction and operation of future natural gas liquefaction facilities. In addition, ExxonMobil was awarded the joint rights to negotiate the Angoche basin (A5-B) and the Zambezi Delta (Z5-C and Z5-D) concessions, as part of Mozambique’s fifth licensing round. Please visit: www.exxonmobil.co.mz or like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ExxonMobilMocambique.

About Osuwela

OSUWELA means “knowledge” in Makua.

OSUWELA is a Mozambican NGO dedicated to promoting development through Science. It works in close collaboration with the Government and civil society, through projects to enhance the STEM areas – Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics –, knowledge transfer and multiplying scientific knowledge for the school audience and the community. OSUWELA's objective is to strengthen Science Education, both formal and non-formal, so that students - and the population in general - can look at Science in an interesting and important way, as well as apply scientific knowledge in everyday life and feel be able to follow the debate on scientific matters happening these days.

OSUWELA is aware of the importance of Women in Science, whose presence is less and less visible in Mozambique. To contribute to solving these problems, we develop activities that promote women's interest in Science, experimentation and the exploration of technology. The aim is to have more women in STEM courses and in jobs in science and engineering.