ME-ALLIANCE BUSINESS INSIGHT
Advanced Technology Research Council Launches Initiatives to Boost Coding Skills Among Abu Dhabi’s Youth
ABU DHABI, 29th October 2024 — The Advanced Technology Research Council (ATRC) is taking bold steps to empower the youth of Abu Dhabi through technology and coding education. In conjunction with the inaugural International Day of Coding, ATRC has launched two exciting initiatives aimed at promoting coding in schools across the Emirate.
Empowering Educators and Students
To foster a robust learning environment, ATRC has been hosting training sessions for teachers, equipping them with innovative tools and methods to enhance the educational experience. One standout tool is ImagiCharm, a wearable device that sparks creativity and introduces coding to young learners. So far, ATRC has rolled out ImagiCharm in 22 schools, training 40 teachers and setting the goal of reaching 1,000 students this academic year, with plans to expand that number to 3,000.
In addition to ImagiCharm, ATRC is introducing a gamified coding experience called Hour of Code in 10 public and private schools in Abu Dhabi and Dubai. Leveraging the popular video game Minecraft, this initiative will teach over 1,000 students in grades 6 to 12 the fundamentals of (Python coding). More than 15 UAE teachers will be trained to implement these engaging teaching methodologies, ensuring they align with the latest trends in global education.
A Vision for the Future
These initiatives aim to make STEM subjects more accessible and engaging through hands-on activities and advanced educational resources. They are a crucial part of ATRC’s mission to position the UAE as a leader in innovation and digital transformation.
The significance of today’s launch is heightened by the broader context: in 2023, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum proposed to UNESCO that October 29 be recognized as the International Day of Coding, a proposal that was warmly accepted. This day now serves as a platform to celebrate coding and digital education in the UAE and beyond.
Shahab Issa Abu Shahab, Director-General of ATRC, emphasized the importance of these initiatives: “The celebration of the International Day of Coding aligns seamlessly with our aspirations to help propel the UAE as a global hub for innovation and digital transformation. We are dedicated to empowering educators and equipping the next generation with essential coding skills, which are crucial for building a competitive knowledge-based economy.”
As ATRC embarks on this mission, the future looks bright for Abu Dhabi’s youth, setting the stage for a tech-savvy workforce ready to drive the UAE’s digital economy forward.
Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn
