Mayardit Space Academy Opens to Train South Sudanese Scientists

(JUBA) – STEMpower, a prominent science and technology education organisation in South Sudan, has pledged strong support for the newly launched Mayardit Academy for Space Science. The initiative, which was inaugurated in Juba on Wednesday 10 September, is being seen as a significant milestone in efforts to inspire the country’s next generation of scientists and innovators.

The commitment was announced by STEMpower Director Lucy Biel during the official launch ceremony. She described the academy as an important platform for sparking curiosity and building skills among young people in South Sudan.

Lucy explained that after just a few days of training, both teachers and students involved in the programme have already started to gain confidence in exploring the world of space science and technological innovation. She encouraged the participants to make full use of the learning tools available to them.

“I believe you are a very special group,” Lucy told the students at the event. “You are pioneers of this programme because you are among the first people exposed to such unique and exciting content.”

The director emphasised that the academy’s launch is only the beginning of a wider project. She assured students and teachers that STEMpower would provide continuous support to ensure the success and expansion of the initiative.

Lucy also extended appreciation to international partners who contributed to the launch. She specifically mentioned Harald, a technical expert, for his essential role in setting up the project, and expressed gratitude to the Israeli government for its financial and material donations.

The Mayardit Academy will be hosted at the Juba STEM Centre, which is part of a growing network of STEMpower facilities across the country. Lucy confirmed that the long term vision is to expand space science training to all 19 of the organisation’s centres in South Sudan, making the subject accessible to more schools and communities.

The new academy represents a rare introduction of advanced scientific training in the country, where education institutions often face challenges ranging from limited resources to inadequate facilities. The programme has been welcomed by pioneer learners as a positive step towards building stronger foundations in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics in South Sudan.

STEMpower said it aims to broaden the imagination and potential of young people by focusing on space science, aligning with global education trends that increasingly highlight innovation and scientific research as drivers of economic growth.

The launch also comes at a time when South Sudan is seeking to diversify opportunities for its youth. With over 70 percent of the population under the age of 30, education and skills development are widely seen as key tools for addressing unemployment and promoting long term stability in the country.

The academy is not only designed to inspire scientific curiosity but also to introduce practical skills. Through access to new technologies and scientific equipment, students will be encouraged to develop projects that could contribute to the nation’s social and economic development.

For now, the Mayardit Academy begins with a small group of students in Juba. However, the vision set by STEMpower and its partners suggests the project could eventually become a national programme that reshapes how science education is delivered in South Sudan.

Details of the Mayardit Space Academy Launch