World's First F1 In Schools Facility Launches In Abu Dhabi

Ethara and ADNOC have taken a significant step forward by renewing their collaboration for the ADNOC Yas in Schools national program. This renewal has been marked by the inauguration of the world's first dedicated F1 in Schools facility – the ADNOC Yas in Schools Experience Centre. Located at the prestigious site of the FORMULA 1 ETIHAD AIRWAYS ABU DHABI GR PRIX, this facility is set to become a beacon of inspiration for students across the United Arab Emirates.

reached its 15th edition, the Yas in Schools program celebrates an impressive milestone of 1 million hours of student learning since its inception in 2010. It has engaged 58,330 students from 1,123 schools nationwide starting from 2019. This initiative stands as a testament to the commitment towards fostering an interest in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) among the youth, by allowing participants aged six years and above to delve into hands-on project-based learning.

Saif Al Falahi, Executive Vice President of ADNOC Group Business Support and Special Tasks, emphasized the program's success, highlighting ADNOC's dedication to the educational and developmental needs of the nation's youth, especially in STEM fields. The extension of their partnership with Ethara and the inauguration of the first F1 dedicated experience centre is a stride towards offering students innovative challenges that promote critical thinking and the exploration of STEM careers.

The 2024 Yas in Schools program is witnessing unprecedented participation with over 20,000 students across its various categories, including Formula Ethara, F1 in Schools, and 4x4 in Schools. This surge in engagement reflects the growing interest in STEM learning within the region. Furthermore, the program is set to introduce updates that will harness evolving technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), with the Yas in Schools Experience Centre acting as a hub for research and development.

Ali Al Beshr, Motorsport Development Executive Director at Ethara, expressed his enthusiasm for the program's continued success and ADNOC's support. He highlighted the ADNOC Yas in Schools Experience Centre as an unparalleled opportunity for students to apply their STEM knowledge in a unique setting that fuels innovation and creativity.

The official opening of the new facility by ADNOC and Ethara sets the stage for student teams to collaborate with industry experts in preparation for the Yas in Schools National Finals Presented by ADNOC. This event is scheduled to take place from June 20 to 24, 2024, at the iconic Yas Island track. Additionally, the unveiling of the new National Finals trophies marks another highlight, with winning teams from each STEM competition set to claim these prestigious awards at the upcoming nationwide finals.

In 2023, the national event saw three teams emerge victorious; Aeolian Racing from JSS International School, Ecolyte from Horizon International School Dubai, and Hermes Racing from Raha International School Abu Dhabi. These teams earned the honor to represent the UAE at the F1 in Schools World Finals, which is expected to be held in November 2024. This achievement not only showcases their exceptional talent and dedication but also underscores the effectiveness of the Yas in Schools program in nurturing the next generation of STEM leaders.