As part of their training at the Arts et Métiers campus Arts et Métiers Bordeaux-Talence, five engineering apprentices carried out an international solidarity project in Ethiopia. Through the association they founded, Ethiopie Solidarité Internationale, they set up a humanitarian mission in partnership with a local NGO. The initiative proved to be a valuable learning experience, both on a personal and professional level.
An ambitious humanitarian project in partnership with AHOPE Ethiopia
As part of their training at the Arts et Métiers campus Arts et Métiers Bordeaux-Talence, five engineering apprentices from the Specialized Engineering Program (PIS) created the Ethiopie Solidarité Internationale association, with the aim of helping orphaned children with HIV in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Launched in 2022, the project came to fruition in early 2025 with a field mission carried out in partnership with the NGO AHOPE Ethiopia.
This non-governmental organization (NGO), founded in 2002, supports HIV-positive children through educational, medical, and social programs. It runs children's homes, a clinic, training workshops, and awareness campaigns to combat HIV-related stigma.
The engineering students ran a big fundraising campaign: sales, events, partnerships, raffles, and donation drives helped them raise almost €8,000, which was way more than they needed. At the same time, they collected clothes, school supplies, and bags with help from businesses, teachers, and friends and family.
On site, they organized creative workshops ( painting, photography, origami), educational workshops (office automation, CV writing) , and cultural outings. Each child received a bag full of supplies and clothes tailored to their size. Distribution was carried out fairly, in close collaboration with NGO staff.
A formative human and professional experience
Beyond the solidarity aspect, this mission was a formative experience for the five apprentices. It enabled them to develop skills in project management, team coordination, intercultural communication, and adaptation in the field.
" This experience in Ethiopia was a unique interlude in my life. It allowed me to step outside my everyday routine, discover another reality, and get involved in a meaningful way," " says Pénélope.
For Maëlle, the project reinforced her vocation: "The experience with the children and the people involved had a profound impact on me. It was as enriching for them as it was for me. This experience has strengthened my motivation to help others. "
Teamwork was at the heart of this success. As Mathieu points out: " This project, carried out with four school friends, will remain engraved in my memory forever. Two weeks of exchange, teamwork, and encounters have had a profound impact on my career. "
Through their activities, the five students found new meaning in their engineering education by placing people at the center of their skills. This project fully illustrates the ability of Arts et Métiers students Arts et Métiers engage in concrete actions with a strong social impact, while enriching their own educational journey.
