The fourth edition of the Abu Dhabi Science Festival (ADSF), to be held next month, will host locally-inspired activities, adding some extra appeal to the region’s largest celebration of science, technology and innovation.

The event will be held under the patronage of H.H. General Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, and organised by the Abu Dhabi Technology Development Committee (TDC).

Local organisations working in partnership with TDC to deliver ADSF 2014 include: Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi (EAD), Emirates Foundation, Family Development Foundation, Khalifa University, Al Ain Zoo, Emirates Park Zoo, Abu Dhabi Astronomy Club, Dubai Astronomy Group, EduTech, Nutty Scientist, ZerOhm and Bidaya Media.

The locally-inspired activities will be taking place on the Abu Dhabi Corniche (East Plaza) in the afternoons and evenings of each Thursday, Friday and Saturday only throughout the duration of the Festival, which runs from November 13 to 22.

Neama Al Marshoudi, manager of content, science and technology promotion TDC, said:  “Building a knowledge based economy is a strategic objective for the UAE. ADSF 2014 is a shining example of how organisations across the UAE can work together to deliver a world class event for the whole community. It is my hope that the local content on display this year will provide inspiration to our young people and highlight what can be achieved through hard work and commitment.”

ADSF 2014 combines proven and popular science-related activities with new content, as well as shows to astound all who will attend, providing a rich and fun experience for the whole family. The local content adds cultural relevance to the visitor experience. This year’s locally inspired offerings include the Water Challenge experts from EAD who pose three challenges relating to one of our most precious resources; My Creative Drawings workshop from the Family Development Foundation which allows parents to better understand their child’s behaviour through their drawings.

Segments in the events include, My Smart Heart where they look at strengthening relations among family members through enabling every member to understand and express his own feelings; Mini-Med Camp, your passport to good health as experts from Khalifa University allow you to test aspects of your health and fitness; Abu Dhabi Astronomers Club introduces the workshop ‘What’s in the sky tonight?’ to examine stars in Abu Dhabi’s night sky and provide tips on what it takes to become an astronaut; Bidaya Media and our friends from Sesame Street teach children to learn more about the sun, moon and stars in Reach for the Sky; in Esref Sah from the Emirates Foundation, children will be taught about the importance of financial literacy and planning. The local group EduTech will host the STEM+Studio workshop allowing children to learn about robotics, electronics and the wonders of 3D design and printing and in Microscopic Level  children will learn how to use and observe different specimens and objects found at Al Ain Zoo. – TradeArabia News Service