Abu dhabi: Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Sandooq Al Watan, announced that Al Sandooq will be the official sponsor of the global competition in artificial intelligence applications, organised by Microsoft for participants from around the world.
He said that Sandooq Al Watan’s sponsorship of this global event, which will be held in the UAE under the title “Imagine Cup UAE”, is part of Al Sandooq’s initiative known as the “Artificial Intelligence Innovator”.
‘This initiative seeks to collaborate with schools and universities to help students make meaningful use of these technologies, while also preparing them to become responsible citizens, confident in their abilities to contribute to the advancement of both their society and the world.’
He added that Sandooq Al Watan is fulfilling this mission by fostering participants’ national pride, affirming their identity, and upholding their national principles and values.
This was
highlighted in the opening speech delivered by Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak during the launch of the “Artificial Intelligence Innovator” programme and the “Imagine Cup UAE” competition for school and university students, attended by numerous UAE university presidents, pioneers in the field of artificial intelligence, and students and members of national identity clubs from schools and universities.
Sandooq Al Watan hosted two introductory sessions on the Imagine Cup UAE competition – one for the school-level, and the other for the university-level – along with a special session for university Tolerance clubs focusing on AI’s role in empowering students.
On the sidelines of the event, Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak inaugurated the “AI Innovations and Applications” exhibition, commending the innovative ideas and projects displayed, which hold potential as future ventures for the nation’s youth.
He also witnessed the signing of a cooperation and joint work agreement between the Ministry of Tolerance and Coexistence
, and Microsoft, in the fields of artificial intelligence.
He expressed that this reflects the country’s strong commitment to artificial intelligence under the wise leadership of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, to staying at the forefront of global advancements and continue to serve as a model for the world in the responsible use of these technologies.
Sheikh Nahyan added, ‘The UAE’s wise leadership, led by President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, is deeply committed to achieving Intellectual and technical advancement, providing every opportunity and resource for our youth to build, grow, and work diligently.’
On the “Imagination and Creativity Cup in the UAE” competition, Sheikh Nahyan highlighted the immense potential of artificial intelligence technologies and the positive impact they can have globally. This includes their significant role in promoting economic growth, driving societal transformation for the better, addressing challenges in health, education,
and climate change, as well as contributing to sustainability, conflict resolution, and supporting people of Determination and other groups of the population.
Additionally, the competition emphasises the preservation of identity and the development of culture and heritage. At the same time, it draws attention to the importance of addressing the ethical aspects in using artificial intelligence technologies, recognising their potential risks, and building the capacities of individuals and communities to confront and manage these challenges wisely and efficiently.
Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak stated that Sandooq Al Watan’s sponsorship of this international competition in the UAE is a true reflection of its mission to develop the capabilities of Emirati youth in utilising modern technologies, encouraging them to adapt, benefit from, and apply these tools in all areas of life.
This sponsorship also demonstrates Al Sandooq’s commitment to collaborate with schools, colleges and universities in a joint effort to driv
e creativity and innovation forward in the country. It contributes to keeping pace with all the global explosion of knowledge, and the rapid advancements in technology.
He expressed his confidence that this competition will serve as a successful platform for cooperation and fruitful collaboration between Sandooq Al Watan, Microsoft, schools, colleges and universities. ‘Young Emiratis participating in this competition possess exceptional skills, enabling them to submit significant projects, initiatives and proposals. They are well-prepared to compete successfully with their peers from various countries around the world.’
Sheikh Nahyan invited Emirati male and female students, to participate wholeheartedly in this competition. He encouraged them to meet the country’s expectations by being exemplary in their openness on artificial intelligence technologies, and serving as an effective force for societal development and progress.
He also urged them to embrace the values of commitment, enthusiasm, integrity, tr
ansparency, smart learning, excellence in work, and a thoughtful response to all challenges, and to always hold these characteristics and qualities close, as they are an essential part of their national identity.
Sheikh Nahyan concluded his speech by saying that “Sandooq Al Watan will continue to prioritise building the capacities of young Emiratis to navigate the tremendous technical advancements, both present and future, and the significant changes in the course of humanity. The UAE has embraced all new and beneficial modern technologies. It stands as a model for the world to follow, in continuously keeping up with developments, and participation in them, with wise vision and great determination to achieve its goals.
The celebration also included honouring 22 university students, graduates and outstanding individuals in the field of artificial intelligence in recognition of their significant efforts and remarkable achievements.
From the Higher Colleges of Technology, Hamad Khalifa Khamis Salem Al Yahyai,
Rahma Ahmed Mohammed Jaber Al Mansouri, Reem Jassim Hamad Salem Al Karbi, Mohammed Munir Majed were recognised.
From the United Arab Emirates University, Mona Salem Ali Al Qaydi, Amna Al Hammadi, and Sarah Al Marzouqi were recognised. From Zayed University, Mahra Al Amiri, Hamda Al Hameli, Shamma Al Kindi, Hoor Al Katheeri, Shouq Al Shamsi were recognised.
From MBZUAI, Abdullah Al Marzouqi, Abdulrahman Al Marzouqi, Salem Al Nasi, and Abdulaziz Al Balushi were recognised.
A number of experts and professors were also recognised, including Dr. Ahmed Al-Hinai, Azzan Adel Farouk, Ahmed Saeed Al-Shamsi and Amer Mohammed Al-Najjar.
Finally, Ali Humaid Al Loughani, was also recognised as the youngest Emirati inventor to receive the Leadership Medal at the International Exhibition of Inventions in London, surpassing 285 inventors around the world, despite being the youngest. He also earned a gold medal for both of the projects he submitted.
Sponsored by the Digital Dubai Authority, Ali has been honoured by the Un
ion of Inventors in Romania, Norton University in Cambodia, and the National University of Science and Technology in Bucharest. Previously, he won numerous awards, including second place award last year at the 34th Technology, Innovation and Invention Exhibition in Malaysia.
Julien Bertin, Azure Lead for Microsoft CEMA, said, ‘We are excited to join forces with Sandooq Al Watan to bring the Microsoft Imagine Cup to the UAE, a key milestone in our shared vision of empowering young innovators across the country. This collaboration reflects our commitment to equipping students with the skills and tools they need to effectively leverage the latest advancements in AI and emerging technologies.
“By fostering creativity and innovation, we are not only empowering the next generation to solve real-world challenges, but also contributing to the creation of a future-ready talent pool that will drive the UAE’s AI transformation and strengthen its position as a leading global hub of innovation. Together, we are shaping
a future where technology is a powerful force for good, unlocking new opportunities for growth and positive impact across the UAE and the region.’
Source: Emirates News Agency