Abstract
Innovative Makerspaces and Fablabs are revolutionizing higher education by providing students with hands-on experiences and nurturing their entrepreneurial spirit. These spaces offer an environment for students to develop essential soft skills such as creativity, collaboration, and problem-solving. Equipped with cutting-edge tools and resources, Makerspaces and Fablabs enable individuals to prototype and create physical products. They also provide students with a platform to explore their creativity, acquire new skills, and work on innovative projects. The integration of makerspaces and Fablabs in higher educational institutions has a significant impact on student engagement and motivation. In light of these benefits, this research aimed to explore the best practices of European Makerspaces and Fablabs by utilizing a literature review, fact sheets, and interviews with the goal of establishing female Makerspaces in Ethiopia and Djibouti. The best practice concept for the educational ecosystem is a directive that is based on evidence and focuses on quality solutions to identified problems/needs for a specific target group. The primary objective of these makerspaces is to offer resources and support for female lecturers, researchers, and students in both Ethiopia and Djibouti. The paper's recommendations are intended for the Ethiopian-Djibouti Females at Makerspace (EtD-FaM) project partners, as well as universities.