The Emirates Foundation for Youth Development opened its ’Think Science Fair’ today (April 20) in Dubai, attracting young scientists from all over the UAE to show off brain power.

The science fair is one of the biggest events of its kind in the region, attracting thousands of school and university students, parents, academics, investors and private sector representatives. This year’s event witnessed a grand opening inauguration with Sheikh Theyab bin Mohammed Al Nahyan welcoming students and participants to the fair and competition that  will continue until April 22 at the World Trade Center.

The Think Science program aims to inspire, encourage, and empower Emirati youth, between the ages of 15 and 24 years, to follow their passion for science with interactive, hands-on activities in the fields of engineering, energy, aviation and other technological industries.

"I am glad to be part of the ‘Think Science Fair’ which is considered one of the biggest scientific exhibitions in the United Arab Emirates and the Middle East region, showcasing innovative projects and inventions of the Emirati youth interested in science and technology,” said Al Nahyan.

The fair will exhibit scientific inventions designed and built by young UAE scientists as part of the “Think Science” competition. More than 550 youth aged between 15 and 24 year olds from public and private schools and universities have entered the competition under the guidance of 150 mentors and supervisors from educational institutions across the UAE.

The schools competition focuses on electrical engineering, environmental sciences, industrial and mechanical systems, non-conventional energy, sustainable energy, physics and chemistry, safety systems, smart systems and transportation. The universities competition is centred around three main categories: Energy & Environment, Smart & Safety systems, and Applied Sciences & Engineering.

The fair also act as a platform to connect youth with experts through motivational sessions that focus on key areas in education.  Discussion panels allow participants to hear from scientist who have made careers out their passion.  There are also various companies and academia at the fair to offer career advice to those in attendance.

The event will be a heightened engagement initiative connecting young people with a strategic scientific network. The Fair also offers individual companies, academia and government institutions the opportunity to showcase their work and connect directly with UAE youth. 30 institutions were selected to exhibit at this event. – TradeArabia News Service