RAS AL KHAIMAH // A newly established “innovation hub” is ready to unleash the creative minds of schoolchildren in the Northern Emirates.
The science, technology, engineering and mathematics innovation hub was launched on Wednesday at the Teachers Association centre in RAK to promote interest in these core subjects. It provides workshops for teachers and students in robotics, 3D printing, aerospace technologies, electronics, computer coding, programming and green energy.
“We wanted to create a space for the youth of Ras Al Khaimah and the Northern Emirates to learn, build and innovate,” said Saif Al Qubaisi, chairman of Al Bayt Mitwahid Association, which launched the hub with Google and the UAE Teachers’ Association.
It attracted students from all over the emirate, including Alonod Badr who hoped to expand her passion for physics and science. “I want to take lessons here, there is a lot of cool stuff that I can tinker with and learn,” said the 13-year-old.
The hub can accommodate up to 20 students and teachers per session, with a lab instructor available to assist. It could also be expanded to other emirates, said Tala Al Ramahi, director of programmes, Al Bayt Mitwahid.
Mr Al Qubaisi also announced a robotics competition for students in RAK, with 20 teams of five pupils taught programming and design, before building their own robot.
tzriqat@thenational.ae