As part of its efforts to develop human capacity and inspire youth to study science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), the UAE Space Agency has sponsored the Spacepreneur Academy, launched by Laboxatory Krypto Labs in collaboration with the Emirates Foundation; the Compass International’s Space Camp; and the Sharjah Centre for Astronomy and Space Sciences’ (SCASS) Space Camp.
The spring camps aim to inform students of new techniques and technologies in space exploration, highlighting the importance of space and astronomy. They provide students with hands-on experience by giving them a chance to make use of sciences for the benefit of humanity. By participating in the spring camps, students will come to better understand the many peaceful uses of outer space.
His Excellency Dr. Eng. Mohamed Al Ahbabi, Director General of the UAE Space Agency, said: “The UAE Space Agency strives to prepare youths to become the future leaders of the space industry. In doing so we are delighted to be able to sponsor space activities and camps that fall in line with our mission of developing human capacity.”
“Every student has the ability to participate in the spring camps, as the camps introduce participants to space exploration in a simplified way, boiling down key concepts so that they are easy to understand. However, we expect these three camps to be of particular interest to students studying STEM subjects, as some advanced topics discussed during the camps pertain to physical theories and rocket science,” added H.E. Dr. Eng. Al Ahbabi.
Aimed at future entrepreneurs, Spacepreneur Academy, was held between 2 April and 11 April, and involved participants between the ages of 15 to 18. Students learned how to establish their own space tech company, and how to develop it and pitch it to real investors. Students also gained valuable experience by meeting with successful entrepreneurs and NASA scientists who mentored the students.
Compass International’s Space Camp included three-day programs that target students between 9 and 18 years old. The Camp focused on rocketry, the Emirates Mars Mission, and the International Space Station (ISS). The Camp was held at the American School of Creative Science from the 7 April to 9 April, and at the Sharjah English School from 11 April to 13 April.
The other Space Camp that was launched by Sharjah Center for Astronomy & Space Sciences, targeted 15 to 18 year-old students. The Camp took place between 7 April and 10 April, and introduced students to astronomy, physics, and space science fundamentals, in addition to the peaceful applications of space.
The UAE Space Agency continues to collaborate with academic institutions to provide students with experience and training, to educate them about the space sector, and prepare them to be the future leaders of the space sector.