Uncategorized Archives | Dubai Education Guide https://www.dubaieduguide.com/category/uncategorized/ Find Out Your Knowledge Hub Mon, 28 Sep 2026 06:05:08 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=7.0.7 How to Implement the UAE AI Literacy Framework in a School https://www.dubaieduguide.com/how-to-implement-the-uae-ai-literacy-framework-in-a-school/ Sun, 27 Sep 2026 06:23:51 +0000 https://www.dubaieduguide.com/?p=11932 For UAE schools, the challenge is no longer whether AI literacy belongs in education, but how to implement it in a way that is coherent, safe and measurable from KG to Grade 12. The UAE framework sets a clear direction: students should progressively move from understanding AI to questioning, evaluating, designing and using it responsibly. […]

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For UAE schools, the challenge is no longer whether AI literacy belongs in education, but how to implement it in a way that is coherent, safe and measurable from KG to Grade 12. The UAE framework sets a clear direction: students should progressively move from understanding AI to questioning, evaluating, designing and using it responsibly. Turning that ambition into school reality requires more than introducing new tools—it means aligning curriculum, teacher readiness, governance, assessment and practical student experiences into one connected learning journey.

For UAE schools, AI literacy is moving rapidly from experimentation to a structured educational requirement. The UAE Ministry of Education has established a National AI Literacy Curriculum Framework from Kindergarten to Grade 12, covering AI concepts, data and algorithms, ethics, societal impact and real-world applications.

For school directors, Heads of Digital Learning, IT leaders and academic teams, the challenge is now operational: How can the UAE framework be translated into a coherent, safe and measurable KG–12 programme?

The answer requires more than introducing AI tools or adding a few lessons on generative AI. Schools need to connect curriculum, teachers, technology, governance, assessment and evidence of student progression.

Start with the framework, not the tools

The first decision should not be which chatbot students will use, but what students are expected to learn.

The UAE framework aims to build foundational AI literacy for all students, move learners progressively from understanding toward application, and prepare them for AI-enabled higher education and careers. It also emphasizes human oversight, ethical and safe AI use, cultural relevance and responsible decision-making.

School leaders should therefore ask:

  • What should a Grade 4 student understand about AI?
  • What should a Grade 8 student be able to evaluate?
  • What should a Grade 12 student be able to design and govern responsibly?

Technology should support those outcomes rather than determine them.

Build one coherent KG–12 progression

One of the biggest risks is implementing AI literacy as disconnected activities: robotics in one grade, ChatGPT in another and prompt engineering later, without progression.

A more coherent journey is:

KG–Grade 2: Discover AI
Smart tools, instructions, patterns, humans versus machines and safe technology use.

Grades 3–4: Understand AI
Data, rules, predictions, machine learning, privacy and human oversight.

Grades 5–6: Understand how AI learns
Algorithms, training data, classification, neural networks, accuracy, bias and applications.

Grades 7–8: Question and evaluate AI
Generative AI, misinformation, data quality, fairness, deepfakes, privacy and responsible use.

Grade 9: Use and challenge LLMs
Prompting, context, hallucinations, verification, bias and academic integrity.

Grades 10–11: Compare and design AI systems
Deep learning, model comparison, human-AI collaboration, explainability, accessibility and accountability.

Grade 12: Design and govern AI responsibly
Governance, regulation, auditing, societal impact and advanced AI-enabled solutions.

The overall journey becomes:

Discover → Understand → Use → Question → Evaluate → Design → Govern

This gives students continuity rather than restarting AI education every year.

Adapt implementation to the UAE school system

Implementation is not identical across all UAE schools.

Within the Ministry of Education system, Artificial Intelligence and Technology is already treated as a formal subject, including assessed provision for Grades 5–12 during the 2025–26 academic year.

ADEK’s AI Literacy initiative for more than 170 Abu Dhabi private schools uses a dedicated year-long curriculum, while allowing schools to deliver the required outcomes through existing subjects, a hybrid model or a standalone programme.

The strategic direction is therefore clear: AI literacy should become a structured K–12 capability, but implementation should reflect each school’s regulator, curriculum and operating model.

Prepare teachers before scaling to students

Technology is often the easiest part. Teachers also need the confidence to guide students through questions such as:

  • Why can an AI model hallucinate?
  • How does context influence an answer?
  • What makes a source trustworthy?
  • How can bias enter an AI system?
  • What information should never be shared with AI?
  • When is AI assistance acceptable?
  • When must human judgment remain in control?

Teachers do not need to become machine-learning engineers. They need enough AI literacy to facilitate experimentation, verification and critical discussion.

ADEK’s implementation also reflects this principle through professional development for teachers, heads of department and designated AI leads. Teacher enablement should therefore be part of the rollout from the beginning.

Treat governance as part of AI literacy

AI literacy and AI governance cannot be separated.

If students interact with AI, schools need clear policies around:

  • approved AI services and models;
  • age-appropriate access;
  • student data and privacy;
  • trusted information sources;
  • human oversight;
  • academic integrity;
  • AI-assisted student work.

ADEK’s framework addresses issues including data protection, student privacy, cognitive agency, human oversight, content safety, cultural alignment and algorithmic fairness.

Governance should therefore not be treated simply as an IT compliance issue. Understanding when and how AI should be used is itself part of AI literacy.

Move students from AI usage to AI literacy

A student may be very good at generating an essay, image or summary with AI and still have limited AI literacy.

AI literacy begins when learners ask:

Why did the model produce this answer?
Should I trust it?
What evidence supports it?
Would another model respond differently?
Did the context influence the result?
Could there be bias?
Should AI be making this decision at all?

That is why students need practical experimentation alongside classroom instruction.

They should experience hallucinations rather than only define them, compare outputs from different models, test how changes in context affect answers, and distinguish between general model knowledge and responses grounded in trusted sources.

Build assessment from the beginning

If AI literacy is a genuine curriculum, schools need evidence that students are progressing.

ADEK has introduced an AI Growth Test twice yearly for Grades 4–12 within its private-school initiative.

At school level, assessment should similarly evolve from simple knowledge toward applied judgment:

I know what AI is → I can explain it → I can use it → I can question it → I can evaluate it → I can create with it → I can make responsible decisions about it.

Assessment can therefore combine knowledge checks, scenarios, categorization, comparisons, decision-making activities, projects and graded evaluations rather than relying only on recall.

How Mexty can support implementation

Mexty has developed editable AI Literacy curriculum templates from KG to Grade 12 to help schools translate the UAE framework into operational learning paths.

The emphasis on editable is important. Schools can adapt content to their own curriculum and context, modify examples and sequencing, incorporate internal policies, change activities and customize assessments rather than adopting a rigid programme.

Within one environment, schools can organize:

Learning Paths → Courses → Interactive Activities → AI Experiments → Evaluations

Students can undertake controlled experiments such as:

  • comparing answers from different AI models;
  • changing prompts and context;
  • investigating hallucinations;
  • analysing bias;
  • comparing general AI answers with responses grounded in trusted sources.

Mexty’s Evaluation module can also support graded assessments using quizzes, decision paths, categorization, visual recognition, question banks and confidence checks.

Mexty’s role is not to replace the UAE framework, school leadership or teachers. It provides the learning infrastructure and editable curriculum foundation through which AI literacy can be adapted, delivered and assessed.

Implement in phases

Schools do not need to transform their entire KG–12 programme at once.

A controlled rollout can follow:

Prepare → Pilot → Measure → Refine → Scale

Start with selected grades. Prepare teachers and governance policies. Deliver a defined learning sequence. Measure student outcomes and teacher experience. Refine the model, then expand.

This makes implementation manageable while creating evidence before wider deployment.

From national framework to school reality

The UAE has already established the direction: AI literacy should be progressive, ethical, human-centred, practical and connected to real-world challenges.

The responsibility for school leaders is now to turn that direction into a sustainable operating model connecting:

Framework → Curriculum → Teachers → Technology → Student Experience → Assessment → Evidence

The real measure of success will not be how many AI tools a school adopts. It will be whether students progressively learn to understand AI, use it, question it, evaluate it and ultimately make responsible decisions about it.

That is the difference between simply introducing AI into a school and building genuine AI literacy.

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]]> Heriot-Watt University Dubai Convenes Global And Regional Leaders At The Second Edition Of The Sustainability Symposium https://www.dubaieduguide.com/heriot-watt-university-dubai-convenes-global-and-regional-leaders-at-the-second-edition-of-the-sustainability-symposium/ Tue, 03 Feb 2026 11:23:24 +0000 https://www.dubaieduguide.com/?p=11373 Heriot-Watt University Dubai successfully hosted the second edition of the Sustainability Symposium, centred on the theme “The essential role of strategic partnerships in achieving sustainable packaging solutions”, bringing together academics, industry leaders, policymakers, humanitarian organisations and students for a high-impact dialogue on addressing packaging waste through collaboration and innovation. Building on the success of the […]

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Heriot-Watt University Dubai successfully hosted the second edition of the Sustainability Symposium, centred on the theme “The essential role of strategic partnerships in achieving sustainable packaging solutions”, bringing together academics, industry leaders, policymakers, humanitarian organisations and students for a high-impact dialogue on addressing packaging waste through collaboration and innovation.

Building on the success of the inaugural Packaging for Sustainability Symposium held in 2024, the second edition reinforced the critical importance of cross-sector partnerships in accelerating the transition to circular, sustainable packaging systems. Through keynote addresses, business case studies and panel discussions, the symposium explored practical approaches to post-consumption waste management, emerging sustainable materials, and scalable solutions across commercial and humanitarian supply chains.

Commenting on the symposium, Dr Matthew Sukumaran, Chief Operating Officer of Heriot-Watt University Dubai, said, “The II Sustainability Symposium reflects our continued commitment to addressing complex environmental challenges through education, research and meaningful collaboration. Since 2024, this platform has actively brought ideas beyond theory into action by convening policymakers, industry leaders, humanitarian organisations and our students. Strategic partnerships are central to advancing sustainable packaging solutions, and this initiative demonstrates how collective effort can deliver real, scalable impact.”

Guest of Honour and keynote speaker,H.E. Maher Al Kaabi, Advisor to the Group Chairman and Independent Board Member, Al Serkal Group of Companies and Member of the UAE Circular Economy Council, said:“Sustainable packaging is not a challenge that can be addressed in isolation. It requires strategic partnerships that bring together science, industry, policymakers, and humanitarian actors to align innovation with regulation and scale. Heriot-Watt University’s leadership in convening this platform demonstrates how academia can play a critical role in translating research into practical, circular solutions that support the UAE’s sustainability objectives while delivering long-term economic and environmental value.”

The symposium featured a series of expert-led panel discussions examining some of the most pressing challenges and opportunities in sustainable packaging. These sessions addressed post-consumption packaging waste, exploring the complexities of collection, segregation and recycling; new sustainable packaging materials and approaches, including biodegradable and compostable alternatives; and innovative solutions from international markets, highlighting how global best practices can be adapted to local and regional contexts. Together, the discussions underscored the importance of policy alignment, industry innovation, and cross-border collaboration in delivering effective, economically viable packaging solutions.

A key highlight of the symposium was the presentation of the outcomes of the II Design Competition, which challenged Heriot-Watt University Dubai students to develop applied solutions to real-world sustainability challenges. This year’s competition focused on post-consumption waste management at Expo City Dubai and sustainable packaging approaches within humanitarian supply chains, in collaboration with partners including Dubai Humanitarian and Othalo. The shortlisted student projects demonstrated how innovation, design thinking, and strategic partnerships can collectively deliver tangible environmental impact.

Through initiatives such as the Sustainability Symposium, Heriot-Watt University continues to play a convening role in advancing sustainable packaging practices and supporting the UAE’s wider sustainability and circular economy objectives.

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]]> Digital Education Must Entertain To Educate, Experts Say https://www.dubaieduguide.com/digital-education-must-entertain-to-educate-experts-say/ Mon, 12 Jan 2026 05:25:07 +0000 https://www.dubaieduguide.com/?p=11334 Educational content creators and experts stressed that in the digital age, knowledge must be engaging, relatable, and credible to capture audience attention. Speaking at the fourth edition of the 1 Billion Summit, which was organised by the UAE Government Media Office from 9 to 11 January, creators highlighted that modern audiences no longer accept dry […]

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Educational content creators and experts stressed that in the digital age, knowledge must be engaging, relatable, and credible to capture audience attention.

Speaking at the fourth edition of the 1 Billion Summit, which was organised by the UAE Government Media Office from 9 to 11 January, creators highlighted that modern audiences no longer accept dry facts. They seek storytelling, human experiences, simple language, and visuals that match the fast pace of digital platforms, while also expecting long-term trust between creator and viewer.

Dr. Adam Bataineh, content creator and CEO at Madeed, said capturing attention in medical and scientific content is a major challenge.

“Starting with heavy terms or complex titles pushes audiences to skip content. On the other hand, linking knowledge to everyday behaviours makes viewers more receptive.”

Bataineh said that storytelling does not oversimplify science but translates it into accessible language, bridging personal experience with specialised knowledge.

Bataineh also discussed the use of visual tools and editing, emphasising that they support the content but are not essential by themselves if the content is unclear or insincere. He added that artificial intelligence can help organise ideas or generate new angles, but it cannot replace human creativity or remove ethical responsibility, especially in medical content related to human health and awareness.

Ahmed Abouzaid, founder of Droos Online emphasised that entertainment is no longer optional for educational content. “Smart enjoyment delivers knowledge attractively without compromising accuracy,” he said.

Abouzaid added that trust is central to content success and is built over time, not through single videos. “Audiences can now discern authentic content from artificial content. AI is a tool, but human connection drives lasting impact,” he said.

He further stressed that building trust with the audience is the key element in the success of educational content. He noted that trust is not built through a single video but through a long-term path of commitment, clarity, and respect for the audience’s intelligence.

Ahmed Aly, architect and content creator, highlighted the importance of storytelling and visual language in fields such as architecture and art.

“Turning ideas into stories helps audiences understand and remember them,” he said.

Aly noted that social media has become the largest informal educational platform in the world, but it requires creators to deeply understand the audience and platform dynamics.

Simplifying ideas does not mean stripping them of meaning, but rather presenting them in a way that preserves their scientific or artistic essence. He also pointed out that AI can assist in generating visuals or conceptualisations, but creativity, human experience, and cultural context remain irreplaceable.

He concluded that successful content combines enjoyment, knowledge, honesty, and the ability to influence.

The fourth edition of the 1 Billion Followers Summit witnessed significant momentum, with attendance exceeding 30,000 and participation from more than 15,000 content creators and major Arab and global influencers. Over 500 speakers with a combined following of more than 3.5 billion attended, while the summit hosted 150 CEOs and global experts across sessions, providing more than 580 keynote sessions, roundtables, interactive dialogues, and workshops.

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]]> Dwight School Dubai Students Raise AED 24,000 For Charity Through Winter Fayre Initiative https://www.dubaieduguide.com/dwight-school-dubai-students-raise-aed-24000-for-charity-through-winter-fayre-initiative-2/ Fri, 09 Jan 2026 05:48:22 +0000 https://www.dubaieduguide.com/?p=11331 Students at Dwight School Dubai have raised AED 24,000 for charity through their annual Winter Fayre, a fully student-run social enterprise initiative that empowers young learners to apply real-world skills while supporting families and communities in need. Organised as part of Dwight’s Spark Enterprise Project, the initiative placed Grade 7 and 8 students in charge […]

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Students at Dwight School Dubai have raised AED 24,000 for charity through their annual Winter Fayre, a fully student-run social enterprise initiative that empowers young learners to apply real-world skills while supporting families and communities in need.

Organised as part of Dwight’s Spark Enterprise Project, the initiative placed Grade 7 and 8 students in charge of the entire process, from product development and stall design to budgeting, marketing, and sales. Every dirham raised will be donated directly to charity, reinforcing the school’s commitment to service, compassion, and meaningful community engagement.

Over the weeks leading up to the Fayre, students worked in teams to create a range of items for sale, including arts and crafts, baked goods and handmade gifts that carry a touch of their own imagination. The project forms part of their ongoing experiential learning programme, which integrates collaboration, planning, and responsible decision-making into the academic timetable.

“Enterprise at Dwight is about more than business skills, it’s about developing curious yet principled young people who can respond to today’s challenges and understand their role in the world,” said David Hutson, Head of School. “Through this project, our students have led every step from concept to creation, embodying collaboration, innovation, and service.”

Earlier this term, Dwight School Dubai students also organised a World Children’s Day donation drive supporting a charity organization. As part of their Creative, Active and Service (CAS) and service learning requirements, Upper School students coordinated the collection of books, puzzles, and educational materials for children and families in need.

Both initiatives reflect ongoing efforts within the school to encourage learners to engage with local communities and contribute to charitable projects.

For more information, visit www.dwight.ae

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]]> Dubai’s Role In Global Finance And Fintech Innovation https://www.dubaieduguide.com/dubais-role-in-global-finance-and-fintech-innovation/ Fri, 26 Dec 2025 07:33:01 +0000 https://www.dubaieduguide.com/?p=11310 Dubai has long been recognized as a global financial hub, but in recent years it has expanded its role by embracing fintech innovation. The city’s leadership understands that the future of finance lies in technology, and it has created an environment where startups, banks, and investors can collaborate to shape the next generation of financial […]

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Dubai has long been recognized as a global financial hub, but in recent years it has expanded its role by embracing fintech innovation. The city’s leadership understands that the future of finance lies in technology, and it has created an environment where startups, banks, and investors can collaborate to shape the next generation of financial services. The Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) is at the heart of this transformation, offering a regulatory framework and infrastructure that attract companies from around the world.

Fintech in Dubai covers a wide range of innovations, from digital payments and blockchain to artificial intelligence and cybersecurity. Mobile wallets and cashless transactions have become common, reflecting the city’s push toward a digital economy. Blockchain technology is being used to improve transparency and efficiency in financial transactions, while AI supports fraud detection and customer service. These innovations make financial services faster, safer, and more accessible, benefiting both businesses and consumers.

Dubai’s government has played a proactive role in supporting fintech. Initiatives such as the Dubai Blockchain Strategy and Smart Dubai encourage experimentation and adoption of new technologies. Regulatory sandboxes allow startups to test products in controlled environments, ensuring that innovation is balanced with security. This approach attracts entrepreneurs who see Dubai as a place where bold ideas can be developed and scaled.

The city’s strategic location enhances its role in global finance. Positioned between Asia, Europe, and Africa, Dubai connects markets and facilitates international trade. Its financial institutions provide services that support businesses across continents, reinforcing its reputation as a gateway to global opportunities. Fintech strengthens this role by making cross‑border transactions more efficient and secure.

Education and talent development are also central to Dubai’s fintech vision. Universities and training centers offer programs in finance, technology, and entrepreneurship, preparing graduates to contribute to the industry. Hackathons, competitions, and conferences encourage innovation and collaboration, creating a vibrant ecosystem where ideas can flourish. The presence of multinational companies alongside local startups ensures diversity and resilience in the sector.

Dubai’s fintech growth also supports financial inclusion. Digital platforms make banking accessible to people who may not have traditional accounts, empowering individuals and small businesses. This inclusivity reflects Dubai’s broader vision of creating opportunities for all, regardless of background or resources. By combining innovation with accessibility, the city ensures that fintech benefits society as a whole.

The economic impact of fintech in Dubai is significant. It attracts investment, creates jobs, and diversifies the economy beyond oil and traditional finance. Startups find opportunities to grow, while established institutions benefit from adopting new technologies. This synergy strengthens Dubai’s position as a global financial leader.

Ultimately, Dubai’s role in global finance and fintech innovation reflects its ambition to remain at the forefront of progress. By embracing technology, supporting entrepreneurs, and fostering inclusivity, the city is shaping a financial system that is modern, resilient, and globally connected. For businesses, Dubai offers a platform to expand; for consumers, it provides convenience and security; and for the world, it demonstrates how finance can evolve to meet the challenges of the future. Dubai is proving that innovation in finance is not just about profit but about creating systems that empower people and drive global growth.

Contributed by GuestPosts.biz

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]]> From Spain with Style: Why Wedges and Spanish Shoes Are Back in Vogue https://www.dubaieduguide.com/from-spain-with-style-why-wedges-and-spanish-shoes-are-back-in-vogue/ Sat, 01 Nov 2025 04:45:45 +0000 https://www.dubaieduguide.com/?p=11168 Fashion is experiencing a quiet revolution, one where timeless elegance and everyday comfort go hand in hand. As more women lean into styles that combine practicality with beauty, it’s no surprise that wedge shoes and traditional Spanish shoes are reclaiming their spot at the forefront of global wardrobes. Rooted in artisanal heritage but designed for modern life, these shoes […]

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Fashion is experiencing a quiet revolution, one where timeless elegance and everyday comfort go hand in hand. As more women lean into styles that combine practicality with beauty, it’s no surprise that wedge shoes and traditional Spanish shoes are reclaiming their spot at the forefront of global wardrobes.

Rooted in artisanal heritage but designed for modern life, these shoes are ideal for women who want to move through their day with ease, style, and confidence.

Why Wedges Are Still a Must-Have

Wedges are the perfect compromise between comfort and elevation. Unlike stilettos or block heels, wedges offer stability by distributing weight evenly across the foot, making them much easier to walk in — even for hours. They’re the ultimate “all-day” shoe, taking you from brunch to evening drinks with no change of footwear required.

What’s more, modern wedge shoes have been reimagined in clean, minimalist silhouettes and neutral tones, making them incredibly versatile. They look just as good with a summer dress as they do with tailored trousers or wide-leg pants. Whether you’re dressing up for a casual day out or attending an event that calls for a little extra height, wedges get the job done — stylishly and pain-free.

The Timeless Appeal of Spanish Craftsmanship

Spain has long been known for its tradition of shoemaking. Generations of artisans have crafted footwear with a focus on natural materials, quality stitching, and breathable comfort, and today’s designers are keeping that legacy alive while adding modern design twists.

From leather loafers to espadrilles and wedges, Spanish shoes have found their way into high fashion runways and street-style galleries alike. If you’re looking for brands that reflect this balance between tradition and trend, explore this curated guide to the best Spanish shoes, it’s a celebration of heritage, durability, and beauty in every step.

Uris: A Bridge Between Classic and Contemporary

Among the many brands embracing this philosophy, Uris stands out for its ability to merge traditional Spanish shoemaking techniques with modern, comfortable designs. Their collections of wedges, espadrilles, and flats are handmade in Spain using high-quality natural materials like jute and cotton, ideal for warm climates and long days.

The brand’s focus on understated elegance makes their shoes a go-to for women who want timeless pieces that still feel fresh and current. Whether you’re styling a vacation wardrobe or building a capsule collection for everyday life, Uris offers options that fit seamlessly into any lifestyle.

Conclusion

As fashion continues to evolve, women are looking for more than just trends they want pieces that feel good, last long, and look effortlessly stylish. Wedges shoes and Spanish shoes represent exactly that: a return to meaningful, well-crafted essentials that don’t compromise on aesthetics or comfort.

Whether you’re drawn to the elegance of a wedge heel or the rich heritage of Spanish design, incorporating these styles into your wardrobe is a step in the right direction one that leads to both confidence and comfort.

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]]> GEMS Education Announces Winners Of 2025 GEMS Global Innovation Challenge And Plug And Play Incubator https://www.dubaieduguide.com/gems-education-announces-winners-of-2025-gems-global-innovation-challenge-and-plug-and-play-incubator/ Thu, 30 Oct 2025 04:48:17 +0000 https://www.dubaieduguide.com/?p=11302 GEMS Education yesterday announced the winners of the 2025 Global Innovation Challenge (GIC) and Plug and Play Tech Center Incubator, celebrating a new generation of young changemakers. The eighth edition of the competition witnessed record uptake, with entries from more than 10,000 students and more than 1,500 students shortlisted to compete across two showcase events. […]

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GEMS Education yesterday announced the winners of the 2025 Global Innovation Challenge (GIC) and Plug and Play Tech Center Incubator, celebrating a new generation of young changemakers. The eighth edition of the competition witnessed record uptake, with entries from more than 10,000 students and more than 1,500 students shortlisted to compete across two showcase events.

Designed exclusively for students across the GEMS network, GIC is a pioneering entrepreneurship initiative that connects young innovators with global mentors, venture capitalists, and startup accelerators. The competition invites students to create solutions aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals, addressing pressing global issues across areas such as clean energy, health, sustainability, education, and equality.

This year’s GIC was expanded through a strategic partnership with Plug and Play Tech Center, one of the world’s most influential innovation platforms, headquartered in Silicon Valley. Through this landmark collaboration, GEMS students have benefitted from the same innovation pipeline as global startups such as PayPal, Dropbox, and N26. The alliance has also opened opportunities for entries from teachers, parents, and alumni.

Over a five-month accelerator programme, eight GIC teams and three GEMS alumni were mentored by industry experts, developed prototypes, and pitched their solutions to investors and corporate partners.

Winning teams gain access to seed funding, incubation, and commercialisation opportunities, creating a full pipeline from initial ideas to scalable startups. Earlier this year, GEMS Education announced AED 3.67 million (USD 1 million) seed funding for student startup projects.

Baz Nijjar, Vice President – Education Technology and Digital Innovation at GEMS Education, said: “The Global Innovation Challenge and our partnership with Plug and Play Tech Center have transformed how students experience entrepreneurship. Our young innovators are not just learning about business – they’re launching ventures, engaging investors, and developing solutions that can make a real difference. This initiative embodies GEMS’ mission to empower every learner to become a creator, problem-solver, and leader for the future.”

Benjamin Kloss, VP Corporate Partnerships and UAE Director at Plug and Play Tech Center, said: “We are proud to partner with GEMS to bring our global innovation ecosystem to young entrepreneurs in the UAE. The creativity and drive we’ve witnessed from these students have been exceptional – they’re proving that innovation has no age limit. Together, we’re building a bridge between education and the startup world, nurturing the next generation of changemakers.”

More than 100 judges evaluated entries across junior and senior categories, selecting 41 ‘Gold Teams’ that proceeded to the next round. Of these, 19 senior teams received one-on-one mentoring from global experts, while 22 junior teams attended a Plug and Play bootcamp.

The top three winners in the senior and junior categories shared a prize pool of AED 52,500 and will receive ongoing mentorship support to develop their projects further. The awards also celebrated 11 Plug and Play incubator teams, with four category winners taking home AED 7,500 each. Selected teams are being considered for potential investment opportunities.

GIC Senior Category Winners:

First Place: StridSense, GEMS Metropole School – Motor City (AED 15,000)

StridSense is a smart insole and companion app for knee osteoarthritis (KOA) detection that provides remote monitoring and gait analysis, addressing the lack of affordable monitoring and early detection for KOA.

Second Place: AudiMold, GEMS Wellington Academy – Silicon Oasis (AED 10,000)

AudiMold is a customisable, high-quality hearing aid using 3D printing and bulk components for under USD 2 (AED 7.35), addressing the lack of affordable hearing aids. Open-source documentation allows upgrades.

Third Place: EcoSign, GEMS Modern Academy (AED 5,000):

EcoSign is an AI-powered sign language translation platform that uses dynamic gesture analysis, distinguishing it from static or hardware-based solutions.:

GIC Junior Category Winners:

First Place: SeeMate, GEMS Millennium School – Sharjah (AED 10,000)

SeeMate is an AI-powered app with an accessible interface and smart device integration that supports visually impaired users through real-time object recognition, text-to-speech reading, and navigation assistance, promoting independence and inclusivity.

Second Place: Smart Safety, GEMS Dubai American Academy (AED 5,000)

Smart Safety is an affordable and customisable smart helmet that protects workers by tracking environmental and health data, like temperature, humidity, and heart rate, sending Bluetooth alerts and using RGB lights to show safety levels.

Joint Third Place: NΞXUS (Soleil Bleu), The Millennium School – Dubai (AED 2,500) and AvengHers, GEMS Modern Academy (AED 2,500)

NΞXUS (Soleil Bleu) is sustainable, reef-safe clothing made from recycled and bamboo fibres that block 95% of UV rays, connected to an app for sun alerts and including biodegradable sunscreen pods – all for USD 50 (AED 183.63).

AvengHers combats microplastic pollution by collecting waste from water-land areas and converting it into 3D printer filament used to create artificial coral for reef restoration. The process reduces pollution, supports marine biodiversity, and promotes sustainable waste management.

Special Award – Youngest Entrepreneur: No Poverty, GEMS New Millennium School – Al Khail (AED 2,500)

No Poverty is an algae-based system that captures CO₂ from vehicles and converts it into oxygen, reducing emissions while driving, with the resulting biomass and kitchen waste compostable to create nutrient-rich fertiliser, supporting sustainable farming.

Plug and Play Tech Center Incubator Winners:

Engagement Award (The Conversation Catalyst): ReSoilution, GEMS World Academy – Dubai (AED 7,500)

ReSoilution is an AI-powered monitoring/restoration system that tackles global soil degradation threatening food security by using drone scans and a probe for real-time, location-specific soil data, offering a more scalable and affordable solution than lab tests.

Performance Award (The Execution Excellence): Eco Bloom, GEMS New Millennium School – Al Khail (AED 7,500)

Eco Bloom addresses environmental pollution and health hazards from disposable pads by building affordable, biodegradable pads using coconut-based materials and corn starch film, offering a unique sustainable composition compared to competitors.

Impact Award (The World Changers): PlastiCure, GEMS Founders School – Al Mizhar (AED 7,500)

PlastiCure aims to solve plastic pollution in aquatic ecosystems via HydroScout, an autonomous underwater vehicle with AI detection that deploys genetically engineered plastic-degrading bacteria, offering a biological solution distinct from mechanical methods.

Resilience & Coachability Award (The Pivot Pro): ThermoVita, GEMS Our Own Indian School (AED 7,500)

ThermoVita addresses health risks among workers and athletes in extreme heat via ThermoGuard, a wristband that monitors health metrics, detects early heatstroke signs, sends real-time alerts, and includes GPS tracking.

Mariam Helmi, a student at GEMS Metropole School – Motor City and one of the minds behind Stride Sense, which won first place in the GIC senior category, said: “The programme has helped me consider our project in a real-world context and understand the necessary steps needed to launch a successful startup. I have valued the opportunity to talk to experienced industry mentors in different fields, as well as ask direct questions and get specific feedback relevant to our project from such inspiring people.”

Anaum Anwar, who studies at GEMS Our Own Indian School and is part of ThermoVita, which picked up a Plug and Play Award, said: “It has been an incredible experience for Thermovita and for me personally. The mentorship sessions gave us valuable insights into market strategy, product development, and pitching, while the constant feedback challenged us to think bigger and improve every step of the way. Overall, the programme has helped us evolve with clarity, confidence, and a stronger roadmap for the future.”

Yesterday’s award ceremony drew senior GEMS executives including GEMS Chairman and Founder Sunny Varkey, Group Chief Executive Officer Dino Varkey, Deputy Chief Executive Officer Jay Varkey, and Group Chief Education Officer Lisa Crausby OBE.

GIC is part of GEMS’ efforts to develop the region’s most comprehensive school-based innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystem in line with the UAE’s national vision to build a knowledge-based, innovation-driven economy led by young talent.

The competition supports the Dubai Future Solutions initiative that seeks to position Dubai as a global innovation hub. It also aligns with the National Agenda for Entrepreneurship and SMEs that aims to establish the UAE as an entrepreneurial nation, the home of 10 unicorns, and one of the top three countries in the Global Entrepreneurship Index by 2031.

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]]> Talented Students From Repton Family Of Schools Unveiled Their Artistic Masterpieces At Alserkal Avenue https://www.dubaieduguide.com/talented-students-from-repton-family-of-schools-unveiled-their-artistic-masterpieces-at-alserkal-avenue/ Tue, 05 Nov 2024 06:37:45 +0000 https://www.dubaieduguide.com/?p=10400 The Repton Family of Schools in the UAE, hosted its second annual students art exhibition, which took place at the Alserkal Avenue from 30th October to 2nd November. The event showcased a curated selection of work created by students from Year 9 to Year 13 from the Visual Arts and Design Technology departments, highlighting their diverse and […]

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The Repton Family of Schools in the UAE, hosted its second annual students art exhibition, which took place at the Alserkal Avenue from 30th October to 2nd November. The event showcased a curated selection of work created by students from Year 9 to Year 13 from the Visual Arts and Design Technology departments, highlighting their diverse and creative achievements.

This year’s collection encompassed a range of artistic mediums, including watercolour, oil paint, acrylic, and ink. The Design Technology department also presented unique pieces that incorporate contemporary materials such as recycled plastics, metals, and wood, demonstrating the innovative spirit of the students. From intricate paintings to cutting-edge furniture designs, every piece on display offered insight into the minds and imaginations of the young artists.

Repton Family of Schools, known for nurturing creativity and self-expression, demonstrated these values through the exhibition. The students spent months developing their pieces, each reflecting a personal journey of discovery and technical mastery. The exhibition celebrated their hard work and artistic vision, culminated in a professional-level display at one of Dubai’s most esteemed art venues.

Gillian Hammond, Principal of Repton School Dubai commented, “We are immensely proud of the work our students produced. This exhibition not only provided a platform to highlight their artistic talents but also offered them an opportunity to engage with the wider community and receive recognition for their hard work. Art and design play a vital role in developing skills such as critical thinking and problem-solving, and it was exciting to see the diverse range of ideas brought to life by our talented students.”

The exhibition at Alserkal Avenue welcomed art enthusiasts, families, and the public, inviting them to explore the visionary works crafted by Repton Family of Schools’ students. It was an inspiring and intriguing experience for visitors from across the region.

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]]> Why Learn Speech & Debate? Hear from the Former Director of Training of the Oxford Union https://www.dubaieduguide.com/why-learn-speech-debate-hear-from-the-former-director-of-training-of-the-oxford-union/ Wed, 28 Aug 2024 12:49:10 +0000 https://www.dubaieduguide.com/?p=10206 Today, near-perfect grades and test scores are no longer enough to guarantee admission into top universities like Harvard, Stanford, and MIT. Among equally qualified applicants, extracurricular participation that demonstrates skill, leadership, and genuine passion is the best way to stand out from the crowd. From athletics to music to MUN, parents and families have a […]

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Today, near-perfect grades and test scores are no longer enough to guarantee admission into top universities like Harvard, Stanford, and MIT. Among equally qualified applicants, extracurricular participation that demonstrates skill, leadership, and genuine passion is the best way to stand out from the crowd.

From athletics to music to MUN, parents and families have a wealth of fantastic opportunities to choose from. As debate coaches, we often feel the need to explain why debate is the right choice for so many students when so many alternatives exist. After all, any form of academic coaching is a substantial investment in a child’s future. It is easy to justify participation in debate via the immediate return on investment that it brings with college admissions. As a statistical group, debaters are 7 times more likely to be admitted into a Top 10 University, score 10% higher on standardised tests, and have grades 20% higher than their peers (Why Debate: https://atlanticdebate.com/debate.aspx?ClassID=18)

These statistics, while impressive, they do not tell the full story of why participating in debate is such a transformative intellectual experience. Debate cultivates three qualitative skills that are essential for any student coming of age in this era of technological disruption.

First, debate teaches students how to question and defend their beliefs.
Traditional classroom essays may not fully prepare students to construct arguments under scrutiny. While a student may receive poor marks for a clearly flawed piece of writing, they are usually rewarded for proving a thesis in a logical and concise manner. Unlike in debate, students never have to defend this thesis against an intellectual adversary. In real life, in business meetings, in politics and economics, and even in deciding where to go out to lunch, we are often faced with two sets of good, logical ideas. By requiring that students prove why one idea is better than another, debate forces them to be intellectually honest. The only way to prove your case is to defend its weakest parts. The only way to defeat your opponent’s case is to beat its strongest parts. In learning how to critically combat arguments, students not only become better advocates for their cause but also gain the intellectual humility to recognize where and when they might be wrong.

Second, debate forces students to think on their feet and become strong public speakers.
Every round of debate is unique. Unlike some extracurricular contests where you can script your entire submission, debate requires quick wits and a sharp voice to defend the work that you have already done. In our decades of experience, we have noticed that two changes rapidly occur once a student starts competing. First, they won’t stop speaking. While the idea of talking for four, five, six, or even seven minutes in a row to an audience may seem intimidating at first, students quickly go from struggling to fill speech time to having so much to say that they can’t get it all in and need to practise word efficiency! Second, students become expert improvisers. When we teach them proven techniques to generate arguments on the fly, pivot their rhetoric based on audience reactions, and rebut objections using a structured method, they quickly gain the ability to adapt to changing circumstances. This skill is invaluable in high-pressure situations like academic presentations, job interviews, and graduate thesis defences.

Third, debate teaches students to connect knowledge and persuasion.
Our students are entering into a world that is very different from the one that we grew up in. The average person not only has access to all of the world’s knowledge in their back pocket, they can also leverage the power of artificial intelligence to crunch data and generate content at a rate that vastly exceeds the productivity of every human on the planet. What this means is that ‘soft skills’ or knowing how to think and communicate, has never been more important. Debate is a game of human reasoning and persuasion. We teach students to look their judge in the eye, to explain clearly why an argument is important, and to relate it to the shared values and ideals that define our community. When everyone has access to good facts and statistics, this is what matters. While debate is usually thought of as having a close relationship to the humanities and social sciences, many of our students actually go on to become engineers and doctors. In fact, they will be the ones whose professions utilise the miracles of modern technology the most. They find debate so useful because it teaches them to cut through the data on the screen to reach the audience; whether that audience is a patient with a rare condition, a government agency contracting construction, or the average person considering downloading a new app on their smartphone. Regardless of who you are or what you plan to do, learning to be an advocate to others and making them care about your causes is an invaluable skill and what we excel at teaching.

About Atlantic Ivy Dubai (atlanticdebate.com)

Who we are

At Atlantic Ivy, we prepare the next generation of leaders to confidently express their thoughts and understand global issues. We teach Speech & Debate Classes both online and in-person to students of all age groups and skill levels.
  1. World Class Instructors: Our instructors are some of the most successful coaches in history; including the former head coaches of the Oxford and Harvard Debate Unions
  2. Tournament Opportunities: Atlantic Ivy are official partners with Harvard College Debating Union & Oxford Union, where we have access to exclusive tournament opportunities in and outside of the UAE.
  3. Small Class Size: All of our classes are seminar and activities based, ensuring personal connections and ample engagements.
WhatsApp: +971 509336806

About the Author
Ricky Huang is the founder of Atlantic Ivy Debate, an education company that focuses on growing Speech & Debate in the GCC (atlanticdebate.com). Prior to founding Atlantic Ivy, Ricky served as the Director of Training at the Oxford Union. He has taught Speech Debate courses at more than 10 universities and 20 high schools worldwide.

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]]> What You Need to Know About Starting Business in Russia https://www.dubaieduguide.com/what-you-need-to-know-about-starting-business-in-russia/ Thu, 01 Sep 2022 14:56:48 +0000 https://www.dubaieduguide.com/?p=9292 https://smarttravel.ae/product/business-visa-to-russia/The Russian Federation, like any other civilized country, does not deny foreigners legally residing in the country the right to carry out commercial activities. Moreover, in order to attract foreign investment, conducting business in Russia for foreigners is regulated by the same rules as for Russians. Thus, using visa support, a UAE businessperson can gain […]

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https://smarttravel.ae/product/business-visa-to-russia/The Russian Federation, like any other civilized country, does not deny foreigners legally residing in the country the right to carry out commercial activities. Moreover, in order to attract foreign investment, conducting business in Russia for foreigners is regulated by the same rules as for Russians. Thus, using visa support, a UAE businessperson can gain access to around 140 million-people market.

But still there are nuances. Let’s consider them in more detail.

Advantages of doing business in Russia

The outflow of foreign capital has culled the business environment. This “sanitary cleaning” significantly reduced competition in the market, opening more opportunities for UAE citizens.

Liberalization of legislation. Foreign capital is guaranteed a national legal regime, i.e., the same as for the Russian. In addition, the legislation guarantees the protection of investments, the possibility of their unhindered withdrawal to their homeland, etc.

Besides, Russia boasts low labor costs – the average salary in Russia is about $500. Because of this, many Chinese enterprises have already transferred their production facilities to Russia.

What a UAE citizen needs to do

There are certain regulations that you need to adhere to if you wish to launch a business in Russia.

Companies with foreign capital enjoy the same conditions, rules of operation, and benefits for doing business as Russian organizations, with minor exceptions. Features of doing business in Russia for foreigners are only in their legal status as the organizers of this business.

To open your own company as a foreign citizen, you must meet several simple conditions:

  • legally stay or reside in Russia on the basis of a business visa to Russia or residence permit;

  • at the time of opening a business, go through registration at the place of residence/stay;

  • obtain a work permit or a patent – if the foreign founder plans to take a position in the company or does not have a residence permit;

  • obtain a TIN (taxpayer individual number, also referred to as INN) with the tax authorities;

  • apostille, translate, and notarize all documents submitted to the registrar if they are in a foreign language.

Therefore, you can start a new business in Russia relatively easily, and while the country is not the world’s leader in terms of the GDP and other such parameters, it still provides many opportunities for foreign entrepreneurs and investors.

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