Accra:First paragraph of the news story. The Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation for Medical and Educational Sciences has initiated the sixth season of the Future Science Challenge. This season follows a significant increase in participation, with more than a 600 percent rise since the competition's inception five years ago.
According to Emirates News Agency, the competition is themed "The Future of Roads and Mobility" and carries the slogan "The Smarter Road." It is aimed at gifted and talented Arab students aged 10 to 17. Teams can register for the competition until October 24, 2026.
The new season emphasizes the utilization of Artificial Intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), sensors, and smart systems to create practical solutions for making roads and mobility systems safer, smarter, and more efficient. Participating teams will tackle real-world challenges and develop technology-based solutions in areas including traffic management, road safety, parking, emergency response, and infrastructure.
Humaid Mohammed Al Qatami, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Foundation, noted the remarkable growth in participation and highlighted the importance of equipping students with critical thinking and problem-solving skills. He pointed out that AI and IoT offer opportunities to develop innovative solutions that benefit communities and emphasized the competition's focus on building safer, more efficient, and sustainable cities.
Dr. Khalifa Al Suwaidi, Executive Director of the Foundation, explained that the Future Science Challenge is an online platform designed to enhance the skills of Arab students in science, technology, and innovation through applied learning. The competition has attracted over 150 student teams from schools and educational institutions across Arab countries.
Dr. Al Suwaidi also mentioned that the new season includes a training program to assist participating teams and supervisors in developing their projects. Three training webinars are scheduled for November 7, November 21, and December 19, 2026. Final project submissions will be accepted from February 18 to March 17, 2027, with the closing ceremony and announcement of winners on April 29, 2027.
Dr. Al Suwaidi praised the role of sponsors, partners, teachers, supervisors, and parents in supporting students. He emphasized that the competition offers opportunities for practical learning, experimentation, collaboration, and skills development.
