Kigali, Rwanda — In a remarkable initiative to inspire the next generation of innovators, the Rwanda Space Agency (RSA) this week hosted a group of Grade 11 and 12 students from Green Hills Academy for a job shadowing experience centered on space science, technology, and its real-world applications.

Over the course of the week, the students immersed themselves in the fascinating world of satellite communications, Earth observation, engineering, and geospatial projects under the guidance of RSA’s technical experts. The program was designed to offer hands-on exposure and help young learners understand how space technologies contribute to sustainable development and national progress.

“This initiative is part of RSA’s mandate to inspire future generations and build local capacity for a sustainable space sector,” read a statement from the Rwanda Space Agency. “We thank the students for their curiosity and enthusiasm, and our partners for their invaluable support.”

In addition to RSA-led sessions, the students engaged with key partners including TRL Space, a Czech-based private company bringing together top engineers and scientists in the field, and officials from the Ministry of ICT and Innovation. These interactions offered students unique insights into Rwanda’s dynamic space ecosystem and its policy landscape.

The Ministry of ICT and Innovation praised the students’ participation and the value of such initiatives:
“We were excited to join the Rwanda Space Agency in supporting this inspiring job shadowing experience. Through hands-on exposure to space science, tech policy, and real-world applications, these students reminded us that youth are not just Rwanda’s future, they are the present, already shaping our innovation journey. To these students: keep asking questions. Stay curious!”

The initiative is one of several ongoing efforts by RSA to work with academic institutions in building local expertise and ensuring young Rwandans are well-equipped to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).

As Rwanda continues to expand its footprint in the global space sector, programs like these are laying a strong foundation by investing in its most promising resource: its youth.