Abu Dhabi, UAE – May 20, 2018 -11 young Emirati youth (8 females and 3 males) participated in the prominent Intel International Science and Engineering Fair (Intel ISEF), the largest international pre-college science competition in the world, which took place in Pittsburgh Pennsylvania- UAE between 13-18 May 2018. 

 

Five exceptional Think Science projects were showcased covering a wide range of innovations including:  a multipurpose compound that will help to distribute heat equally to prevent extreme temperature changes and provide an improved thermal insulation; The use of Graphene insulator to introduce a more durable, thermal resistant, and long-lasting nanosatellite; A Compact Microstrip Antenna for Ultra-Wide Band Applications; H2O Desalination and Purification Using CNT and Silver Nanoparticles; and Techno-Filter Glasses.

 

The participation of the youth comes as part of the Think Science Ambassador program, a platform that inspires and empowers outstanding youth, who had previously participated in the Think Science Competition, and enhances their ability to address technological issues, through providing them with opportunities to participate in local, regional, and global platforms and competitions.

 

Commenting on the participation of Think Science Ambassadors in the Intel ISEF, Maytha Al Habsi, CEO of Emirates Foundation said: “Through Think Science Program, Emirates Foundation aims to embody the Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) policy, adopted by His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, in 2015, which was considered as a turning point in the country’s march towards progress, economic diversification and prosperity. Today, we are we are honored to engage once again the best young innovators of our nation, in Intel International Science and Engineering Fair – ISEF. ISEF is an excellent opportunity for our aspiring young scientists to interact and engage with the like-minded passionate young scientists from across 75 countries and showcasing their talents and scientific discoveries through an international platform, where the world’s leading minds in science will review and judge their work. “ 

 

Al Habsi further elaborated that “Through the Think Science program, Emirates Foundation aims to empower young people by providing them with solid STI skills, encouraging them to innovate and deploy technology that addresses some of today’s broader socio-economic challenges. It is through exposure and hands – on experience at such international platforms, which are fully supported by Emirates Foundation, that youth gain knowledge and self confidence that empowers them to delve deeper into their inventions and discoveries and trespass any limitations and boundaries in order to pursue their passions and dreams and transform them into reality.”

 

Expressing their gratitude and appreciation, the Think Science Ambassadors shared a collective message saying: “Think Science Program has opened doors and supported us to expand our horizons and knowledge beyond any expectations. Today, we here representing our country at Intel International Science and Engineering Fair where we were exposed to diversified cultures and innovations from peers from around the World – We very grateful to Emirates Foundation for giving us this unique and once in a life time opportunity and for teaching us that hard work and commitment will always pay off.”

 

Intel ISEF provides an annual forum for more than 1,800 high school students from over 75 countries, regions, and territories to showcase their independent research and compete for more than $4 million in awards. Today, millions of students worldwide compete each year in local and school-sponsored science fairs; the winners of these events go on to participate in regional and state fairs from which the best win the opportunity to attend Intel ISEF. 

 

At Intel ISEF, awards are based on students’ abilities to tackle challenging scientific questions, use authentic research practices, and create solutions for the problems of tomorrow, where doctoral level scientists review and judge their work. 

 

Participating Projects included: 

 

1. Temperature Insulating Solution:  This project is a multipurpose compound that will help to distribute heat equally to prevent extreme temperature changes and provide an improved thermal insulation.

2. Graphene Insulated Nanosatellite: This project introduced a more durable, thermal resistant, and long-lasting nanosatellite by using Graphene insulator.

3. A Compact Microstrip Antenna for Ultra-Wide Band Applications: This project aims to improve communication systems using a low cost small sized antenna with very large bandwidth.

4. H2O Desalination and Purification Using CNT and Silver Nanoparticles: A cost efficient system for an improved water desalination using silver nanoparticles and multi-walled carbon nonotubes.

5. Techno-Filter Glasses: A solution to help patients with Irlen Syndrome, which affects brain's ability to process visual information, to raise their confidence and improve their sight.