Morgan State University’s Yacob Astatke was selected as the 2016 GEDC Airbus Diversity Award recipient for his efforts to improve the delivery of engineering education in Africa. Photo: Morgan State University
The nomination period has started for the 2017 Airbus Diversity Award. Entries for this fifth annual award can be made for an individual, or team, working with or in an engineering college or faculty. The deadline is July 10.
Nominated projects must have demonstrated tangible results in creating diversity among engineering students and/or graduates. The award aims to highlight projects that have encouraged more young people of all backgrounds to successfully pursue studies in engineering. It was developed and funded by Airbus in partnership with the Global Engineering Deans Council (GEDC). This year, the award is to be placed under United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Org. patronage.
“At Airbus we know that a diverse and inclusive culture is an asset,” said Jean Brice Dumont, EVP of engineering for Airbus Helicopters and patron of the award. “It boosts the innovative mindset that underpins the vast technological advances happening in aviation and aerospace today. We are committed to developing the next generation of engineering talent and are proud to partner with UNESCO and engineering schools around the world to achieve that.”
In November, the award was given to Dr. Yavob Astatke from Morgan State University in Maryland. His project involved introducing technology and training initiatives across universities in Ethiopia to improve the delivery of engineering education in Africa.
The winner is to be announced at the GEDC Annual Conference in Niagara Falls, Ontario, in October. The project will be awarded $10,000. Two running-up projects will receive $1,500.