The National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA) has urged schools across Nigeria to integrate space education into their learning programmes, describing it as a pathway to future careers in science, technology, and innovation.
Speaking at the second graduation ceremony of the Pathway to Space Programme in Abuja, NASRDA’s Director-General, Dr Matthew Adepoju—represented by Assistant Director, Mrs Olayinka Fagbero—said the initiative was designed to “catch them young” by sparking early interest in space science among African students.
From the third edition, NASRDA will coordinate Nigerian students’ participation, extending formal invitations to schools nationwide. Adepoju added that the agency hopes to expand access to thousands of learners when the next cohort opens in 2026.
Organised by the Future African Space Explorers STEM Academy (FASESA), South Africa, the programme had participants from Nigeria, Kenya, and Ethiopia. Executive Director of FASESA, Mr Sean Jacobs, said the goal is to bring space exploration into African classrooms while building a talent pipeline for the global space industry.
“Space is more than becoming an astronaut. It is about building applications and knowledge that will shape global policymaking and innovation,” Jacobs noted, adding that global aerospace companies like Boeing are already supporting the initiative.
Fagbero, who also serves as FASESA Country Coordinator, disclosed that participation had grown from 70 students in 2024 to over 400 this year, with only internet access and a device required to join.
The programme’s organisers emphasised that with government, schools, and parents’ support, Africa could nurture a new generation of scientists and innovators equipped for the space economy.
