Botswana recently took centre stage in African aviation by hosting AviaDev Africa 2026, the continent’s premier aviation development conference. The event brought together airlines, airport authorities, aircraftmanufacturers, tourism boards, investors, policymakers, and aviation experts from across Africa and beyond to discuss the future of air connectivity, route development, and aviation growth on the continent.
As part of the conference’s commitment to creating meaningful impact within the host country, Dare To Dream Foundation was selected as the Official Outreach Partner for AviaDev Africa 2026, a recognition of the Foundation’s growing role in youth empowerment, STEM education, innovation, and aviation development in Botswana.
Through this partnership, Dare To Dream successfully connected young people to the aviation industry by hosting a student outreach programme that exposed learners to real-world aviation experiences and career opportunities.
A total of 60 students from Maru-a-Pula School, Mogoditshane Senior Secondary School, Mogoditshane Junior Secondary School, Al-Nur School, Tlokweng Dayspring Primary School, and Kgale Hill Junior Schoolparticipated in the programme.
The outreach activities were designed to inspire curiosity, innovation, and an appreciation of aviation among young learners. For many of the students, it was their first opportunity to experience the aviation industry beyond the classroom.
One of the highlights of the programme was the opportunity for students to appreciate and explore a real aircraft up close, providing a firsthand understanding of aviation operations and technology. Students also engaged with aircraft component models displayed by NGAP Academy, gaining insight into the engineering and technical systems that keep aircraft operating safely and efficiently.
The programme further introduced learners to the rapidly growing field of drone technology. Students explored various drone models and learned about their applications in aviation, agriculture, mapping, environmental conservation, and emergency response, demonstrating the increasing importance of unmanned aerial systems in modern industries.
Innovation and technology were also brought to life through Virtual Reality (VR) demonstrations facilitated by Access Tech Company. These immersive experiences allowed students to engage with emerging technologies and better understand how innovation is transforming learning and industry worldwide.
Another major highlight was the Airbus Little Engineer Programme, where students were introduced to 3D modelling using Tinkercad software. Through practical design exercises, learners created their own aircraftmodels while developing critical skills in creativity, problem-solving, digital literacy, and design thinking. The programme demonstrated that young people can move beyond simply using technology to becoming creators and innovators themselves.
In addition, students had the opportunity to interact with aviation professionals and industry experts who shared valuable insights into careers within aviation, aerospace, engineering, airport management, and related sectors. These interactions helped broaden learners’ understanding of the opportunities available within the aviation ecosystem and inspired many to consider future careers in the industry.
The enthusiasm displayed throughout the outreach programme reaffirmed the importance of exposing young people to emerging industries and future-focused career pathways. By connecting classroom learning with practical experiences, the initiative helped students see the possibilities that exist within aviation, innovation, and STEM fields.
One of the most significant outcomes of the partnership between AviaDev Africa and Dare To Dream Foundation was the awarding of USD 11,000 to support a legacy programme that would extend the impact of the conference beyond the three-day event.
The funding was provided to enable Dare To Dream to develop and implement a youth-focused aviation initiative that promotes aviation awareness, STEM education, innovation, and aerospace learning among young people in Botswana.
This investment represents a strong vote of confidence in Dare To Dream Foundation’s ability to create meaningful and impactful programmes that empower young people while supporting Botswana’s long-term aviation and innovation ambitions.
Maun Aviation Week: Building on the Momentum
In response to this opportunity, Dare To Dream developed Maun Aviation Week 2026, a legacy programme designed to transfer the inspiration, knowledge, and opportunities generated during AviaDev Africa directly to young people in Botswana.
Originally scheduled for June, the programme has been rescheduled following consultations with participating schools to avoid clashes with examination periods. The new dates for Maun Aviation Week are 10–14 August 2026.
The initiative will bring together 100 students (50 girls and 50 boys) from primary, junior secondary, and senior secondary schools across Maun.
Participants will engage in a five-day programme featuring:
- -Design Thinking Workshops
- -Aviation and STEM Learning Sessions
- -Industry Visits
- -Innovation Challenge Presentations
- -A signature Flying Experience, providing students with a unique opportunity to experience aviation firsthand
The programme aims to inspire the next generation of pilots, engineers, innovators, aerospace professionals, and technology leaders while strengthening Botswana’s position as a hub for aviation and STEM learning.
The success of AviaDev Africa 2026 has further strengthened Dare To Dream Foundation’s position as one of Botswana’s leading youth innovation, STEM, and aviation organisations. More importantly, it has demonstrated the power of strategic partnerships in creating opportunities for young people to explore industries that will shape the future.
Transforming an international aviation conference into a platform for youth empowerment, Dare To Dream is ensuring that the legacy of AviaDev Africa extends far beyond conference halls and boardrooms. Through initiatives such as Maun Aviation Week and the Airbus Little Engineer Programme, young people are being equipped with the skills, knowledge, confidence, and inspiration needed to participate in the future of aviation and innovation.
As Botswana continues to position itself as a player in the global aviation ecosystem, investments in youth development will remain critical. Through programmes like these, the country’s future aviation leaders are already beginning their journey.