Mubadala Development Company has been announced as the official platinum sponsor of a school outreach programme organised by the Abu Dhabi Technology Development Committee (TDC).

The partnership underlines both entities’ commitment to promote science, technology and innovation (STI) among the younger generations to support the development of a diverse talent base in the emirate.

A key initiative from TDC, the ‘lema?’ school outreach programme follows global best practices in the methods applied to stimulate interest in science and technology amongst the youth. This is achieved through demonstrating at schools exciting scientific experiences and creating significant lasting memories for students.

The aim is to instil a passion for science, and ultimately to inspire youth to pursue education and careers in STI.

By working hand in hand with strategic partners sharing the same vision, such as Mubadala, TDC aims to contribute to the nation-wide efforts to develop the human capital.

Ahmed Saeed Al Calily, Director General of Abu Dhabi Technology Development Committee said: “The creation of a knowledge-based economy can only be achieved if we continue to invest in our human capital, and in particular developing our youths’ skills in science, technology and innovation.”

“It is important to provide the right tools and methods that would engage and stimulate our youth; our ‘lema?’ programme is a proven success in this area. It is equally important to find the right partners who can facilitate the expansion and accessibility of such programmes, enabling even more students to participate. Mubadala’s support and partnership propels us even further along the path to build the foundations for a knowledge based economy.”

Homaid Al Shemmari, chief executive officer, Aerospace & Engineering Services at Mubadala, said: “We are committed to engaging and inspiring the next generation of the UAE’s workforce to pursue careers in science, technology and innovation, a sector which will see exponential growth in the future. Our partnership with TDC allows us to directly contribute to the development of our nation’s youth and foster the creation of a diverse talent base for the UAE.”

TDC’s ‘lema?’ programme takes an informal approach to science education, and comprises a combination of interactive workshops and shows designed to engage children in grades 3 to 7.

Since its launch in 2013, the ‘lema?’ programme has excited and engaged with more than 50,000 students in 100 public and private schools in Abu Dhabi, Al Ain and Al Gharbia with its innovative and fun approach to science education. – TradeArabia News Service