Rabat, Morocco – August 29, 2023 – The U.S. Embassy in Rabat and the Moroccan Initiative for Space Industry (MISI) are pleased to report robust participation and substantial progress at the inaugural AMAZE Space Camp. The camp, aimed at Moroccan students aged 15-18, offers an immersive, hands-on experience designed to inspire passion for space exploration and technology. The program has received a significant response, attracting 1,646 applications from across Morocco with a commendable 63% of applications from female students and a majority from public schools.
After an application period that ran from July 10 to August 4, 2023, and following a rigorous multi-tier selection process that involved essays, online selection tests, and interviews, 30 bright students were selected for AMAZE Space Camp, held at the 1337 School & UM6P venue in Khouribga. These participants are now immersed in a unique blend of STEAM education activities, ranging from rocket construction and astrobiology seminars to upcoming events like space mission simulations, hands-on rover programming and a culminating night of stargazing.
“Traditional teaching methods can often limit the expansive canvas of technology and space exploration to textbook confines,” remarks El Hassan BOUAGHAD, co-founder of MISI. “Our belief is that we should not be spoon-feeding STEM to our students. Hence, our TEAMS (Technology, Engineering, Art, Mathematics, Science) and Teamwork approach focuses on hands-on activities that encourage curiosity, active learning, and shared knowledge within their communities.”
El Hassan further adds, “Our aim is to nurture these students not just as learners, but as ambassadors of science and technology. We believe that when they share their experiences and newfound passion, they inspire their peers and foster a space-focused mindset in the generations to come.”
Ayesha Quirke, Deputy Cultural Attaché at the U.S. Embassy in Rabat explained, “We are honored to collaborate with MISI in hosting the Amaze Space Camp, a beacon for igniting a passion for space exploration among our Moroccan participants. Through this endeavor, we hope to inspire the next generation to pursue educational and career opportunities in this fascinating field.”
More details about AMAZE Space Camp: https://amaze.ma
About the US Embassy Rabat:
The U.S. Embassy in Rabat represents the American government and the American people to the government and people of the Kingdom of Morocco. The Public Affairs Section of the Embassy is responsible for media relations and cultural programs. These cultural programs include music, theater, sports, speakers, trainings, exchanges, and other programs which lead to greater understanding between the American and Moroccan people.
About the Moroccan Initiative for Space Industry:
The Moroccan Initiative for Space Industry (NGO) is the fruit of the collective vision and efforts of young scientists, engineers, space industry professionals, entrepreneurs, and avid STEAM outreach program managers. Its mission is to harness MISI’s members’ significant experience in the space industry to develop and deliver creative engaging hands-on projects to students in Morocco and abroad.
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