2026 African Astronomical Society Conference

Advanced Ethiopian Women in Physics and Astronomy Focus Group

25 Mar 2026, 11:30

15m

Wild View Resorts

In-person - Talk 5 Addressing Inequality in Astronomy/Indigenous Astronomy Education, Development & Outreach

Speaker

Mehbuba Ahmed (Space Science and Geospatial Institute (SSGI))

Description

This initiative, led by Mehbuba Ahmed from the Space Science and Geospatial Institute (SSGI), highlights the Advanced Ethiopian Women in Physics and Astronomy Focus Group, which empowers female students in STEM, particularly physics and astronomy in Ethiopia. SSGI focuses on space science, remote sensing, and geospatial technologies, achieving accolades and collaborations with global institutions.
The project, funded by a $1,000 grant from the American Physical Society Women in Physics Group Grant (WiP Group Grant), addresses challenges faced by female physics students in Ethiopia, such as gender biases, lack of mentors, and limited access to quality education. Proposed solutions include outreach initiatives to secure funding, mentorship programs, and partnerships with local universities to inspire young women and enhance access to educational resources.
The outreach activities included seminars on physics and astronomy at major universities, featuring presentations on computational astrophysics and stargazing sessions. Key achievements include establishing the group as a recognized student club, increasing participation from diverse backgrounds, and raising awareness about career opportunities in physics and astronomy.
To ensure sustainability and growth, the group plans strategic initiatives such as digitizing outreach programs to create an interactive platform with resources for female students, developing astronomical applications in collaboration with local STEM institutions, and strengthening partnerships with international organizations. We will seek funding from government bodies, NGOs, and private organizations that support women in STEM.
Community engagement will be fostered through public lectures, workshops, and stargazing events to garner support. A framework for monitoring and evaluating program effectiveness will be established to adapt based on feedback. These initiatives aim to create a robust support system for female students in physics and astronomy, contributing to a more inclusive scientific community.