Sandooq Al Watan Launches Imagination And Creativity Cup In Partnership With Microsoft To Foster AI Innovation

Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, announced that Sandooq Al Watan will sponsor a global AI competition organised by Microsoft. This event, named "Imagine Cup UAE," is part of the "Artificial Intelligence Innovator" initiative. The programme aims to engage students in meaningful technology use and prepare them as responsible citizens contributing to societal advancement.

The initiative collaborates with educational institutions to foster creativity and innovation among students. Sheikh Nahyan emphasised the importance of instilling national pride and identity while upholding values. This was highlighted during the launch of the "Artificial Intelligence Innovator" programme, attended by university leaders, AI pioneers, and students from various institutions.

Sandooq Al Watan hosted sessions for school and university participants in the Imagine Cup UAE competition. A special session for university Tolerance clubs focused on AI's role in empowering students. Sheikh Nahyan inaugurated the "AI Innovations & Applications" exhibition, praising innovative projects with potential for future ventures.

A cooperation agreement between the Ministry of Tolerance and Coexistence and Microsoft was signed during the event. Sheikh Nahyan expressed that this reflects the UAE's commitment to AI under President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan's leadership. The country aims to remain at the forefront of global advancements in responsible technology use.

Sheikh Nahyan highlighted AI's potential impact on economic growth, societal transformation, health, education, climate change, sustainability, conflict resolution, and supporting diverse populations. The competition also focuses on preserving identity and culture while addressing ethical aspects of AI technologies.

Encouraging Youth Participation

Sheikh Nahyan stated that Sandooq Al Watan's sponsorship reflects its mission to develop Emirati youth capabilities in modern technologies. He encouraged collaboration with educational institutions to drive creativity and innovation forward in the country. This effort aligns with keeping pace with global knowledge expansion and rapid technological advancements.

He expressed confidence that the competition will foster cooperation between Sandooq Al Watan, Microsoft, schools, colleges, and universities. Young Emiratis are expected to showcase exceptional skills through significant projects and initiatives, competing successfully with peers worldwide.

Recognition of Achievements

The celebration honoured 22 university students for their achievements in artificial intelligence. Recognised individuals included Hamad Khalifa Khamis Salem Al Yahyai from Higher Colleges of Technology and Mona Salem Ali Al Qaydi from United Arab Emirates University. Experts like Dr. Ahmed Al-Hinai were also acknowledged for their contributions.

Ali Humaid Al Loughani received recognition as the youngest Emirati inventor awarded the Leadership Medal at an international exhibition in London. Sponsored by Digital Dubai Authority, he has been honoured by various institutions globally for his innovative contributions.

Julien Bertin from Microsoft CEMA expressed excitement about collaborating with Sandooq Al Watan for Imagine Cup UAE. He stated that this partnership empowers young innovators with skills needed for leveraging AI advancements effectively. The collaboration aims to create a future-ready talent pool driving UAE's AI transformation as a leading innovation hub globally.

Sandooq Al Watan remains committed to building young Emiratis' capacities amidst technical advancements shaping humanity's course. The UAE continues embracing beneficial modern technologies while maintaining wise vision and determination towards achieving its goals.

With inputs from WAM