ADNOC And Ethara Unveil World's First 'F1 In Schools' Experience Centre In Abu Dhabi

Ethara and Adnoc have renewed their partnership for the Adnoc Yas in Schools national programme and inaugurated the world’s first dedicated ‘F1 in Schools’ facility – the Adnoc Yas in Schools Experience Centre. This advanced venue, located at the home of the Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, is designed to host schools from across the UAE. The Yas Marina Circuit track provides a unique inspiration to the 'Engineers of the Future' Centre.

Now in its 15th edition, the Yas in Schools programme marks 1 million hours of student learning since 2010. Since 2019, 58,330 students from 1,123 schools nationwide have participated. This youth-focused initiative offers students a pathway into a project-based STEM learning program. Participants aged six years and older can apply their skills within science, technology, engineering, and mathematics to design their own F1-inspired racing brand and build a model racing car to compete in the national finals held at the end of each school year.

Saif Al Falahi, Executive Vice President of Adnoc Group Business Support and Special Tasks, stated: "The success of the Yas in Schools programme is testament to Adnoc’s commitment to investing in the learning and development of our children, particularly in STEM education. We are very pleased to extend our partnership with Ethara and inaugurate the first F1 dedicated experience centre that will provide students with new and exciting challenges, stimulate creative thinking and encourage them to explore STEM career pathways."

The 2024 Yas in Schools programme has more than 20,000 students participating across its Formula Ethara, F1 in Schools, and 4x4 in Schools categories. Interest and engagement in STEM learning are at an all-time high in the region. The partnership extension will see programme updates to further empower UAE students within STEM across evolving and emerging technologies such as AI. The Yas in Schools Experience Centre will serve as the programme's research and development hub.

The Yas in Schools programme continues to be a significant initiative for fostering interest in STEM education among young students. With ongoing support from Ethara and Adnoc, it aims to inspire future generations of engineers and innovators.