Egyptian Space Agency (EgSA) concludes its fourth African Space Technology Basic Training program

The Egyptian Space Agency (EgSA) successfully concluded the fourth African Space Technology Basic Training Program, marking another milestone in its commitment to fostering regional collaboration in space technology. The program, hosted at the Space Academy of the Egyptian Space Agency, brought together 21 engineers and specialists from 20 African countries, reflecting a shared vision for the development of the space sector across the continent.

The closing ceremony was a distinguished gathering, with key figures in attendance, including Professor Dr. Sherif Sedky, CEO of the Egyptian Space Agency; Ambassador Osama El-Hady, Deputy Secretary-General of the Egyptian Agency of Partnership for Development; Dr. Tidiane Ouattara, Chairperson of the African Space Council; Dr. Dominique De Martire, Science Attaché at the Italian Embassy in Cairo; and Dr. Ayman Mahmoud, Head of the Central Administration for Space Programs. Directors of central departments at EgSA, the technical team overseeing the training, and the participating trainees also graced the event.

In his address, Dr. Sedky underscored the Egyptian Space Agency's unwavering dedication to advancing the African space sector through knowledge-sharing and regional cooperation. He highlighted the importance of the program as a platform for building capacities, enhancing expertise, and fostering integration among African nations. Dr. Sedky expressed his appreciation for the high level of interaction between the trainees and Egyptian experts, emphasizing that such exchanges exemplify the unity and collaboration required to propel Africa's space ambitions forward.

The African Space Technology Basic Training Program, a cornerstone of EgSA's outreach initiatives, focuses on equipping participants with essential skills and insights into satellite development, space systems engineering, and data analysis. It also serves as a vital opportunity for networking and exchanging ideas among professionals from diverse backgrounds. This year’s session reinforced Egypt’s commitment to creating a platform for innovation and sustainable development within the continent.

Ambassador Osama El-Hady echoed these sentiments, noting that the training aligns with Egypt’s broader efforts to strengthen partnerships with African nations, particularly in technology and innovation. Dr. Tidiane Ouattara, representing the African Space Council, praised the program as a model for collaboration and capacity-building, essential for driving the African space agenda.

The presence of international partners, such as Dr. Dominique De Martire from the Italian Embassy, highlighted the global interest in Africa's evolving space ecosystem. Their involvement further underscores the potential for cross-border cooperation in advancing technological capabilities across the continent.

By investing in the capacity-building of African engineers and specialists, the Egyptian Space Agency continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of space exploration and technology on the continent.

By:  Nana Appiah Acquaye