Program Overview

Estedad Summer Program

The Estedad summer program is a selective initiative for high-achieving high school students in the UAE, hosted by Khalifa University in collaboration with the UAE Ministry of Education. The program provides students with opportunities for academic and personal growth, while fostering scientific research and innovation and developing entrepreneurial skills and mindset.

Program Tracks

The Estedad program offers three focused tracks:

• Scientific Research
• Innovation and Entrepreneurship
• Enrichment and Technical Skills

Scientific Research Track

The Scientific Research Track is led by experts, including Dr. Houda Majid, PhD researchers Ruba Islayem, and Marwa Ahmed. This track provides students with hands-on training in scientific research across science, technology, and engineering (STE) disciplines through structured modules and projects. Participants learn about:

• Developing a scientific research mindset
• Hypothesis design and methodology
• Data collection and analysis
• Intellectual property and the road to commercialization

Innovation and Entrepreneurship Track

The Innovation and Entrepreneurship Track is led by Dr. Zainab AlAnsari and Dr. Seba Zakaria Al Areeqi. This track empowers students with innovation frameworks, design thinking, and entrepreneurial leadership. Participants learn about:

• Building creative confidence
• Insight generation
• Ideation, journey mapping, and prototyping
• Innovation leadership

Enrichment Track

The Enrichment Track is led by postdoctoral researchers Hamza Fiaz, Mughni Irfan Mohammed Abdul, and Mohammed Misbah Uddin. This track helps participants develop project planning, communication, collaboration, and engineering fundamentals through engaging activities. Participants also learn about:

• Design thinking and technical skills
• Team dynamics and prototype development

General Requirements Strand (GRS)

The General Requirements Strand (GRS) is facilitated by Dr. Nooreya Alobeidli and Kholoud Elayyan. This strand helps participants with:

• Analysis of the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) personality assessment
• Time management and study skills
• Critical thinking and communication
• Essay writing and university readiness

Program Details

• Duration: Two weeks
• Dates: July 14-24, 2025
• Number of participants: 105 (78 UAE National and 27 international students)
• Selection criteria: Stringent Ministry of Education criteria
• Program theme: Leading the Future Through Our Students