UAE innovators win UN award

Twelve young Emirati youth (7 females and 5 males) participated in the prominent Intel International Science and Engineering Fair (Intel ISEF), the largest international pre-college science competition in the world, which took place in Phoenix, Arizona- USA between 12-17 May.

Six exceptional Think Science projects were showcased covering a wide range of innovations including: Refushield: easily constructed, portable shelters, that aim to aid and protect refugees and homeless people; Aroma Virtual Reality aiding students to learn by using all their senses and can help in reducing the symptoms of autism and anxiety by connecting aromatherapy and relaxing scents to virtual reality; Smart Shoes and Exosuit to detect rheumatoid arthritis; Ozone Technology for Wastewater Treatment; Adopting the natural wastes and resources in finding alternative low-cost materials from Local Palm tree replacing the conventional fibre materials used to make boats, and Absorption of Heavy Metals from Industrial Effluents using Fish Scales.

The Refushield team from Al Mawaheb School, represented by Dhabia  Al Hosani, Reem Alhajeri and Amena Almarzooqi and under the supervision of Ms. Dalia Eissa  won the “United Nations Sustainable Development Goal Award” for their outstanding research and presentation. The award was provided by United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) and the Junior Academy of Science of Ukraine under the auspices of UNESCO.

Two other Think Science projects, the ‘Aroma Virtual Reality’ and the ‘Tougher Boats Made from Local Palm Tree Fiber’ projects were selected to be published in the prestigious ‘International Journal of High School Research’ in recognition of their outstanding quality to represent the future of the scientific community.

The participation of the youth comes as part of the Think Science Ambassador program, a platform that inspires and empowers outstanding youth, who had previously participated in the Think Science Competition, and enhances their ability to address technological issues, through providing them with opportunities to participate in local, regional, and global platforms and competitions.

Commenting on the participation of Think Science Ambassadors in the Intel ISEF, Maytha Al Habsi, CEO of Emirates Foundation said: “I would like to express our deepest gratitude to the wise leadership of the UAE for their unconditional support of youth, especially in the areas of science, technology and innovation.”