UAE Showcases Youth-Driven Innovation At 9th BRICS Young Scientist Forum In Russia

The United Arab Emirates took part in the 9th BRICS Young Scientist Forum and the 7th BRICS Young Innovator Prize held in Sochi, Russia. This marked the UAE's first participation since joining BRICS in January 2024. The event showcased the UAE's dedication to empowering young talent to engage in global discussions on science, technology, and innovation.

The Advanced Technology Research Council (ATRC) of Abu Dhabi led the UAE delegation. Their aim is to foster a research and development ecosystem that supports a knowledge-based economy. The delegation included representatives from various entities and universities across the nation.

Seventeen young Emirati scientists participated, presenting 11 innovative projects at the forum. These projects were categorised under Environmental and Climate Technologies, Nature-like and Convergent Technologies, and Digital Humanities. Notable initiatives included autonomous drones for mangrove reforestation and advanced bioinformatics for improved immunotherapy.

In addition to these projects, UAE representatives competed for the BRICS Young Innovator Prize with solutions like IoT-enabled smart agriculture and sustainable biodiesel production. These efforts reflect the UAE’s commitment to tackling global challenges through youth-led research and innovation.

The UAE played a strategic role on the Science, Technology, and Innovation BRICS Steering Committee. Members of ATRC led initiatives within the Young Scientist Forum and Young Innovator Prize programs. This aligns with the UAE’s Centennial 2071 vision to promote technological solutions contributing to global progress.

The event featured participants from Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. It highlighted the UAE’s efforts to strengthen partnerships within BRICS nations and beyond, promoting equitable access to innovation and technological advancement.

Commitment to Global Partnerships

The BRICS Young Scientist Forum is crucial for fostering international partnerships and encouraging cross-border innovation. Through its focus on youth-driven research, the UAE addresses local challenges while contributing globally in science and technology advancements.

This initiative underscored the importance of equipping young innovators with resources, knowledge, and networks necessary for future leadership. By supporting this forum, the UAE demonstrated its belief that technology is essential for sustainable development and long-term economic prosperity.

With inputs from WAM