Last Saturday, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed (PhD) officially inaugurated the Permanent Exhibition Section of the Ethiopian Science Museum. This visionary, state-of-the-art national project was first inaugurated in October 2022 by Prime Minister Abiy aiming to promote homegrown scientific research, technology, and innovation. As the first project of its kind in Ethiopia, it reflects the nation’s commitment to empowering future generations and achieving technological transformation by promoting local practices and research in science, technology, and entrepreneurship.
The Science Museum, covering over 6.78 hectares in the heart of Addis Ababa near the National Palace, features two large buildings. The largest spans more than 15,000 square meters, with a total width of about 132 meters.
The Museum hosts both permanent and temporary exhibitions that showcase local inventions, innovations, and discoveries. It aims to enhance the scientific, social, cultural, and economic benefits for Ethiopia, Africa, and the world. To date, the museum has organized numerous local, regional, continental, and global scientific conferences, technological exhibitions, competitions, and technology trade fairs.
While temporary exhibitions have been organized since its inception, the permanent section was officially inaugurated last week. This milestone marks Ethiopia’s stride into the age of innovation and scientific advancement. The permanent exhibition is more than just a gallery of scientific marvels; it is a national asset embodying Ethiopia’s ambition to become a continental leader in technology and innovation. With state-of-the-art exhibits and interactive learning zones, it serves as a dynamic platform to spark the imagination and potential of Ethiopia’s youth.
“Anyone who wants to create, see, and experience the future should visit the Science Museum’s permanent exhibition—an inspiring showcase two years in the making,” said Prime Minister Abiy during the inauguration. He urged parents to bring their children to the museum emphasizing its role in inspiring young minds.
Highlighting the strategic importance of the exhibition, Prime Minister Abiy (PhD) described it as a transformative environment where dreams are born and future careers in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) are envisioned. “The permanent exhibition is a great asset for us to build tomorrow’s Ethiopia,” he stated noting that early exposure to such environments enables children to imagine their future and pursue paths rooted in innovation.
According to the Prime Minister, the Museum serves both as a mirror reflecting Ethiopia’s potential and as a compass guiding its youth toward a more advanced, self-sufficient nation. He acknowledged that building the permanent exhibition center required substantial resources, but its long-term impact on the country’s intellectual and scientific landscape justifies the investment. “This Museum is the place where we build tomorrow,” Abiy remarked encouraging the younger generation to seize the opportunities available to them.
The Science Museum’s Permanent Exhibition Section consists of five thematic areas, each addressing critical challenges facing the nation and the world with scientific solutions.
- Artificial Intelligence (AI): This section introduces visitors to AI applications and their transformative impact on industries, featuring demonstrations of machine learning, robotics, and smart technologies.
- Climate Change and Ethiopia’s Response: This timely exhibit illustrates the impacts of global climate change, Ethiopia’s vulnerabilities, and the innovative solutions being adopted from reforestation to clean energy.
- Agriculture: Showcasing technological advancements in crop science, smart irrigation, and mechanized farming, this section is vital for ensuring food security in a changing climate.
- Hydropower and Energy: Exploring Ethiopia’s potential as a clean energy hub; this section highlights sustainable energy solutions.
- Aeronautics and Aviation: Aiming to inspire dreams of flight, this section showcases Ethiopia’s aerospace ambitions and technological achievements, with educational content on aerodynamics and satellite systems.
Each section combines interactive displays, digital simulations, models, and educational videos, offering an informative and engaging experience that showcases the nation’s commitment to scientific innovation and sustainable development.
One of the most anticipated highlights of the launch was the unveiling of Ethiopia’s first Planetarium Dome, the largest in Africa. Spanning over 1,000 square meters with a diameter of 36 meters, it features cutting-edge 4K digital projection technology and can host over 200 visitors at once. The planetarium delivers immersive visuals of the cosmos, creating a lifelike experience of the night sky and galactic phenomena.
This addition elevates the Museum’s status as a regional leader in science education and serves as a powerful tool for sparking interest in astronomy and space exploration among young minds. PM Abiy emphasized that the exhibition was designed with youth in mind noting that a large proportion of Ethiopia’s population is under 25; thus making such strategic investments in education and innovation are impactful.
“Children can shape their future identities and dreams by experiencing what is on display here,” Abiy noted. He urged parents, teachers, and community leaders to bring children to the museum, especially during summer breaks when outdoor activities are limited.
Belete Molla (PhD), Minister of Innovation and Technology, commended the vision behind the exhibition describing the launch as a “great step forward into the future.” He emphasized the exhibition’s potential to cultivate curiosity, develop critical thinking skills, and prepare young Ethiopians for careers that will shape both their futures and that of the continent.
Now open to the public, the Science Museum and its newly inaugurated permanent exhibition invite citizens from all walks of life to engage with the future of science and technology. The inauguration of the Permanent Exhibition Section is more than a ceremonial event; it represents a declaration of national purpose, signaling Ethiopia’s intent to nurture a generation that is informed, inspired, and equipped to tackle the challenges of the 21st century.
With its thematic focus, groundbreaking planetarium, and commitment to youth empowerment, the Museum stands as a beacon of possibility, bridging tradition and modernity, ambition and action, past struggles and future triumphs. As Ethiopia steps forward, this exhibition serves as both a symbol and catalyst for the nation’s journey toward a brighter, more innovative future.
BY DARGIE KAHSAY
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD FRIDAY 20 JUNE 2025
