Pitch At GOV Sixth Edition Winners Highlight Renewable Energy Innovations By UAE Universities

The sixth edition of the Pitch @ GOV programme has recognised four student-led projects that address renewable energy and environmental challenges, with total financial support of AED200,000. Organised by the Mohammed Bin Rashid Centre for Government Innovation in collaboration with the Mohammed Bin Rashid Innovation Fund and the UAE University, this year’s round focused on the theme "Renewable Energy for a Better Life."

This special student edition highlighted how universities in the UAE are contributing to clean energy goals and sustainable development. More than 100 ideas were submitted from institutions across the country, with short-listed teams presenting their concepts to a judging panel of specialists from MBRCGI, MBRIF and the UAE University.

The top award went to "Ghaf" from Khalifa University, which received AED80,000. The project is a digital application that encourages both individuals and businesses to adopt low-carbon lifestyles. It uses a rewards-based points system to incentivise sustainable behaviour, linking everyday choices with practical environmental benefits and aligning with national climate objectives.

Second place, with a prize of AED60,000, was awarded to "Tyredo" from the Higher Colleges of Technology. The proposal uses piezoelectric materials embedded in smart roads made from recycled car tyres. These roads are designed to generate clean energy from vehicle movement, supporting the UAE Energy Strategy 2050 and national plans for more sustainable infrastructure.

The "Sustainable Student Swap" platform from the UAE University secured third place and AED40,000. This AI-powered application allows students to exchange items and study supplies using an incentive-based points system. The platform aims to reduce waste on campus, encourage reuse of resources and promote a circular economy culture among the university community.

Fourth place went to "Oil Skimmer", also from the Higher Colleges of Technology, which received AED20,000. The project is an intelligent system that targets oil spills in marine environments. It is designed to recover spilled oil safely and sustainably, protect marine ecosystems and limit the long-term environmental impact of pollution in coastal and offshore areas.

Pitch @ GOV renewable energy focus and youth empowerment

Huda Al Hashimi, Assistant Minister of Cabinet Affairs for Strategic Affairs, said the sixth Pitch @ GOV cycle represents a new stage in government efforts to empower young people. Al Hashimi explained that the programme strengthens youth participation in developing future-ready solutions that support wellbeing for coming generations, and praised the strong performance of student teams from universities across the UAE.

Al Hashimi added that the shortlisted innovations directly support government priorities on clean and sustainable energy. The projects showed practical models that address global environmental challenges, while also reflecting the UAE Government’s approach of using innovation as a core working method. According to Al Hashimi, this strengthens the country’s global role in using knowledge and innovation to build a better future.

Fatima Yousef Al Naqbi, Acting Assistant Undersecretary for Support Services at the Ministry of Finance and the Ministry’s representative on the MBRIF, highlighted how the programme showcases the capabilities of Emirati youth. Al Naqbi said it also demonstrates that the UAE has built an ecosystem that encourages innovation and long-term thinking, in line with the Fund’s aim to support innovators throughout their journey.

Al Naqbi stated: "These initiatives represent a practical model of innovation as a key driver of comprehensive development and embody the UAE’s vision to build a sustainable economy based on knowledge, innovation, and collaboration. We congratulate the winners of this year’s challenge, which focused on developing renewable energy solutions in line with national priorities to enhance competitiveness and future leadership," she added.

Professor Dr Ahmed Alraeesi, Vice Chancellor of the UAE University, underlined the importance of involving students in national sustainability work. Professor Dr Alraeesi said, "Driven by our belief that today’s students are tomorrow’s leaders, this challenge represents an enabling platform to stimulate creativity and channel it into practical solutions that support the UAE’s sustainability journey."

Pitch @ GOV renewable energy support and track record

This sixth edition achieved the highest financial support level since the Pitch @ GOV programme began. Four projects together received AED200,000 and the chance to join the MBRIF Accelerator Programme. Participation in the accelerator is expected to help student teams refine their concepts, develop prototypes and move toward real-world implementation.

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Since its launch, Pitch @ GOV has attracted more than 1,000 participants and hosted over 100 pitch sessions. During these events, participants presented a wide range of innovative ideas to expert panels. The initiative continues to provide a structured platform where youth-led projects are assessed, mentored and guided towards potential deployment within the UAE’s innovation landscape.

The latest Pitch @ GOV results highlight how university students are engaging with renewable energy and environmental issues through practical, technology-based ideas. With financial backing, access to the MBRIF Accelerator Programme and ongoing support from government innovation bodies, the four winning teams now have clearer pathways to develop their projects and contribute to the UAE’s wider sustainability objectives.

With inputs from WAM