PRESS RELEASES

The UAE Challenge Execute Steering Committee Invites
Dr. Karam to lead International Jury

Dubai, UAE (Dec 18, 2005). [Arabic Press Release][Photos]

An international panel of judges has been invited to evaluate the project submissions for the recently announced UAE Educational IT Challenge, launched under the patronage of His Excellency Sheikh Nahayan Mabarak Al Nahayan, Minister of Education.

Speaking at a press conference to update the media on the progress of the challenge and to appoint Dr. Abdulla Al Karam, Director of Knowledge Village to lead an international panel of judges, Dr. Tayeb Kamali, Vice Chancellor of the Higher Colleges of Technology said that Dr. Al Karam’s appointment was confirmed by the Executive Steering Committee of the challenge.

“The committee cited his wide experience and enthusiastic support for innovative projects which would add value to the judging process and ensure that the highest standards of excellence are achieved.”

The judging panel to be led by Dr. Al Karam will comprise both educational and industry representatives, and the judging of projects will be done to international standards. International judges from the GCC, Stockholm and Rome will evaluate projects based on their innovation, usefulness, educational value and social impact.

Dr. Karam noted that “The number of entries received so far is extremely encouraging, and with a deadline of February 15th 2006 we are on track to exceed last years total of 457 projects.”

Explaining the judging process, Dr. Karam said evaluation of projects would begin in February, with finalists being announced in mid April 2006. Winners will be announced at a special awards function to be held in Dubai on April 22nd 2006, in the presence of Sheikh Nahayan Mabarak Al Nahayan, Minister of Education.

There will be awards for best student and teacher projects for secondary schools, colleges and universities, including three special awards for UAE nationals.

“All finalist and winning projects will be displayed during the awards ceremony, and winners will be encouraged to interact with IT companies present in order that projects may be commercialized.” “In addition, the winners will be invited to participate in the global Stockholm and Rome challenges” added Dr. Al Karam.

In 2002 and 2004, winners of the UAE challenge successfully reached the finals of both the Stockholm and Rome international challenges, with whom there is ongoing dialogue.

Further information regarding the challenge can be found on the website at www.uaechallenge.com

For further details please contact Mr. Robert Brown, Program Coordinator on tel. 02-6941467 or Ms Kashmira Tamhane, Executive Director, 20/20 Management on tel. 04-3430968 or Mobile 050-6556794.
Website : www.uaechallenge.com