Program Overview

Introduction to the National Ambassadors Program 'Estedad'

The National Ambassadors Program 'Estedad' is a collaborative initiative between Khalifa University of Science and Technology and the UAE Ministry of Education. The program aims to enrich the capabilities of high school students and prepare them to excel academically, gain insights into entrepreneurship and scientific research.

Program Tracks

The program consists of three tracks, each lasting for two weeks and led by a Khalifa University expert:

• Enrichment: Focuses on 'design thinking' and promotes students' knowledge and skills in different aspects, including artificial intelligence (AI), programming, and robotics.
  • Led by Dr. Hassan Barada, Associate Dean for Undergraduate Studies, College of Engineering, and Professor, Electrical and Computer Engineering.
  • Introduces students to design thinking, research methodologies, creativity, and innovation.
• Innovation and Entrepreneurship: Nurtures students in the business field, embedding them with the traits and skills of an entrepreneur, and empowering them to think out-of-the-box innovative solutions.
  • Led by Dr. Nawaf I. Almoosa, Acting Director of Emirates ICT Innovation Centre (EBTIC), and Assistant Professor, Electrical Engineering and Computer Science.
  • Helps students gain important entrepreneurial skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, risk-taking, and collaboration.
• Scientific Research: Provides students with scientific research methodology concepts, protecting IP rights, and filing patents.
  • Led by Dr. Sami Bashir, Director, Technology Management and Innovation.
  • Helps students understand the importance of incorporating innovation skills in conducting cutting-edge scientific research and the ability to identify and contextualize problems, validate technological solutions, collect/analyze research findings, and configure and present research data into meaningful perspectives.

Program Details

• Each track has 25 students from Grade 11 and 12, of which 20 are UAE nationals.
• Students were selected based on their academic and behavioral performance in the school's transcript and their score in National Ambassador Program entry assessments.
• Khalifa University assessed their capabilities and potential through an interview and selection process.

Objectives and Benefits

The program aims to develop the knowledge and skills of high school students in key areas of importance, including Science and Technology, Innovation, Scientific Research, and Entrepreneurship. The collaboration between Khalifa University and the Ministry of Education seeks to leverage the university's resources to empower students and create a new generation able to rise and compete in different fields.

Conclusion

The National Ambassadors Program 'Estedad' is a unique opportunity for high school students to develop their knowledge and skills in enrichment, innovation and entrepreneurship, and scientific research. Led by Khalifa University experts, the program provides students with a comprehensive learning experience, introducing them to the nature of university life and the most important skills a student should own during their academic journey.