DUBAI // A biologist will dissect squid and fish live on stage during a science exhibition next month in the capital.
The dissection, which organisers admit is “not for the squeamish”, will be performed by a biologist from Bahrain’s Science Centre and is among several exhibits at this year’s Abu Dhabi Science Festival from the wider region.
Organisers have cast their net far for this year’s event, which will run from November 14 to 23 at the du Forum on Yas Island and at the Corniche East Plaza.
An exhibit from Jordan will focus on electricity, while one from Egypt will feature Professor Zanzoun, a star from Arabs’ Got Talent.
“The festival’s continued success year-on-year means we are constantly looking for fresh and engaging content that will add to the excitement,” said Neama Al Marshoudi, manager of content, science and technology promotion at festival organiser Abu Dhabi Technology Development Committee (TDC).
“This year, we broadened our approach and reached out to regional science and technology content providers, all of whom have exemplary credentials within the sector.
“We are lucky to have a wealth of excellent providers partnering with us and we are thrilled with having Bahrain’s Science Centre, Egypt’s Planetarium Science Centre and Jordan’s Children’s Museum joining us during this edition.”
The Bahrain Science Centre exhibit is called What’s Inside? and will feature several dissection workshops throughout the festival.
“This is a real-life opportunity to experience the science of anatomy close up and discover marine animals from the inside out,” according to organisers.
The Egyptian exhibit will feature shows from Professor Zanzoun, who hosts a popular Super Science show at the Planetarium Science Centre, in Alexandria.
Festival organisers said the show would put the “pizzazz into science”.
“Discover the marvels of chemistry, physics and biology and laugh as you learn with this breathtaking edutainment experience,” a statement said.
Finally, the show from Jordan’s Children’s Museum will feature an in-depth look at how electricity works.
Now in its third year, the science festival was set up to inspire young people to take up science and technology in further education.
“At TDC we recognise that science, technology and innovation [STI] are key to creating a diversified, knowledge-based economy and building a secure future for the UAE youth,” said Ms Al Marshoudi.
“ADSF is just one of our many initiatives specifically dedicated to the education, engagement and inspiration of the nation’s youth, encouraging them to pursue education and careers in STI.”
To maximise coverage, the festival will tour to several other locations this year. It will be at Al Ain Zoo on November 14 and 15 and again on November 22 and 23.
On November 16, children from Al Gharbia can join in the fun at the Madinat Zayed Garden.
On November 17 and 18, the event will move to the Ras Al Khaimah Corniche, while on November 19 and 20 visitors to the Fujairah Corniche will be able to take part.
On November 21 children from Umm Al Quwain will get a chance to enjoy the hands-on scientific games and challenges at the emirate’s cultural centre.
mcroucher@thenational.ae
