Ruwad Launches The 13th Edition Of Business Stars To Promote Entrepreneurship Among UAE Students

The Sharjah SME (Ruwad), part of the Sharjah Economic Development Department, has introduced the 13th edition of its "Business Stars" initiative. This three-week programme is designed to foster self-employment and entrepreneurship among young people. Sixty projects from students across the UAE are participating, in collaboration with Sajaya Young Ladies of Sharjah, as part of the 14th Suburbs Festival.

The event commenced at Al Qarayen Park 5 in Sharjah, attended by Hamad Al Mahmoud, Chairman of the Sharjah Economic Development Department, Amina Mohammed, Director of the Training, Research, and Events Department, and other committee members. Visitors were eager to explore the diverse projects and products on display. The initiative is unique this year as it unfolds over three consecutive phases for the first time.

Hamad Al Mahmoud toured the student projects, engaging with students about their entrepreneurial ideas aimed at creating small business models. He highlighted that Business Stars serves as a vital incubator for students, offering an environment that nurtures skills and creativity into pioneering ventures. The initiative runs daily from 16:00 to 22:00 between December 5th and 25th.

Fatima Al Ali, Acting Director of Sharjah SME (Ruwad), stated: "We look forward to organising a distinguished edition of the initiative that aligns with Ruwad’s vision and objectives of spreading the culture of entrepreneurship, promoting the concept of private business among students, developing their business acumen, and encouraging them to generate innovative ideas and refine their entrepreneurial skills and capabilities, as they are the generation that will lead the path of development and innovation in the future."

The programme's schedule is divided into specific periods for different age groups. From December 5th to 11th, primary school students aged 10 to 15 showcase their projects. Secondary school and university students aged 16 to 21 present theirs from December 12th to 18th. The final phase from December 19th to 25th includes all schools and universities alongside Sajaya Young Ladies of Sharjah members.

In addition to student projects, visitors can enjoy entertainment activities, art workshops, and educational sessions. These are organised in collaboration with entrepreneurial projects from Foundation members holding accredited licenses. This blend aims to enrich both participants' experiences and visitors' engagement.

Evaluation Criteria

Projects undergo daily assessments by judges based on criteria like innovation, financial management, marketing strategies, and compliance with terms. Fatima Al Ali noted that students participated in introductory workshops before launching their projects to maximise success chances. Safety measures for participants and visitors are prioritised along with ensuring kiosk security.

The initiative not only encourages entrepreneurship but also strengthens partnerships among schools, universities, families, and government bodies. It provides a platform for young entrepreneurs to develop skills crucial for future innovation and development leadership.

With inputs from WAM