### Acknowledgment

We would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has supported our organization in its
mission to enhance STEM education and digital literacy in the community.

First and foremost, we thank our dedicated staff and volunteers whose hard work and commitment
drive our programs forward. Your passion and expertise make a significant impact on the lives of
students and educators alike.

We extend our appreciation to our partners and collaborators, including schools, community
organizations, and businesses, for their invaluable contributions and resources. Your support has been
instrumental in helping us achieve our goals.

We also acknowledge the students, teachers, and community members who participate in our
programs. Your enthusiasm and eagerness to learn inspire us every day.

Lastly, we are grateful for the funding and support from donors and grant agencies, which enable us to
expand our reach and enhance the quality of our offerings.

Together, we are building a brighter future through education, and we look forward to continued
collaboration in the years to come. Thank you for being part of this important journey!

### Introduction

The Gedeo Zone in Ethiopia is a vibrant region characterized by rich cultural heritage and agricultural
practices, yet it faces significant challenges in accessing modern education and technology. In an
increasingly digital world, the lack of educational resources in science, technology, engineering, and
mathematics (STEM) limits opportunities for youth and hampers local development. Recognizing this
gap, initiatives aimed at enhancing science and technology education have emerged as vital for
empowering communities, fostering innovation, and promoting sustainable development. By investing
in education and digital literacy, these initiatives aim to equip individuals with the necessary skills to
thrive in the modern economy, address local challenges, and contribute to the region’s overall growth
and progress.

### Background

The Gedeo Zone, located in the Southern Nations, Nationalities, and Peoples' Region of Ethiopia, is a
culturally rich area known for its strong agricultural practices and vibrant communities. However, like
many regions, it faces challenges in accessing modern science and technology education, which is crucial
for local development and economic growth.
In response to these challenges, organizations focused on fostering science and technology have
emerged to enhance educational opportunities, promote digital literacy, and support innovation among
youth and local entrepreneurs. These initiatives aim to empower the community by providing resources,
skills training, and infrastructure necessary to thrive in an increasingly digital world.

By cultivating a culture of science and technology, these organizations play a vital role in bridging the
gap between traditional practices and modern advancements, thus contributing to sustainable
development and improving the overall quality of life in the Gedeo Zone.

### Specific Objectives

1. **Enhance STEM Education**: Develop and implement tailored science, technology, engineering, and
mathematics (STEM) programs for local schools to improve student engagement and interest in these
fields.

2. **Digital Literacy Training**: Provide training workshops for community members, focusing on basic
computer skills, internet usage, and digital tools to increase technological proficiency.

3. **Promote Local Innovation**: Support local entrepreneurs and innovators by offering mentorship
programs, resources, and platforms to develop and showcase their technological solutions.

4. **Community Awareness Campaigns**: Conduct outreach initiatives to raise awareness about the
importance of science and technology for sustainable development within the Gedeo Zone.

5. **Create Partnerships**: Establish collaborations with local, national, and international organizations
to secure funding, resources, and expertise.

### General Objective

The general objective is to empower the Gedeo Zone community through the integration of science and
technology into education and local practices, ultimately fostering sustainable development, enhancing
economic opportunities, and improving the overall quality of life.

### Structure of Organization

1. **Board of Directors**:

- Responsible for governance, strategic direction, and oversight of the organization’s activities.

2. **Executive Team**:

- Comprising the Executive Director and senior management, this team handles daily operations,
resource allocation, and execution of strategic plans.
3. **Program Managers**:

- Oversee specific projects and initiatives related to STEM education, digital literacy, and community
engagement, ensuring goals are met and resources are effectively utilized.

4. **Administrative Support**:

- Manages day-to-day administrative tasks, including finance, human resources, and communication
functions.

5. **Field Staff**:

- Operate on the ground, directly engaging with the community, implementing programs, conducting
workshops, and providing mentorship.

6. **Advisory Committees**:

- Consist of experts and community leaders who provide guidance, insights, and support for program
development and evaluation.

This structure allows for effective management, clear communication, and streamlined implementation
of initiatives aimed at fostering education and technological advancement in the Gedeo Zone.

### Activities of the Organization

1. **STEM Education Programs**:

- Organizing workshops, training sessions, and hands-on activities to enhance knowledge and skills in
science, technology, engineering, and mathematics among students and teachers.

2. **Community Outreach**:

- Engaging with local communities through awareness campaigns, informational sessions, and
partnerships to promote the importance of STEM education and digital literacy.

3. **Digital Literacy Training**:

- Providing training on digital tools and resources to enhance computer skills and access to online
learning platforms.
4. **Resource Development**:

- Creating and distributing educational materials, toolkits, and online resources to support teachers
and students in STEM subjects.

5. **Mentorship Programs**:

- Facilitating connections between students and professionals in STEM fields, providing guidance,
support, and career advice.

6. **Collaboration with Schools**:

- Partnering with local schools to integrate STEM curricula, provide teacher training, and enhance
classroom resources.

7. **Monitoring and Evaluation**:

- Regular assessment of program effectiveness, collecting feedback, and making improvements to

These activities aim to empower the community, foster a culture of learning, and promote sustainable
development through enhanced education and technological skills.

Chapter 2