Masdar puts sustainability research in spotlight

ABU DHABI / WAM

The Masdar Institute of Science and Technology, an independent, research-driven graduate-level university focused on advanced energy, and sustainable technologies, inspired youth and visitors with innovation highlights and an exciting quiz competition during its participation at Think Science 2016.
Organized under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, UAE Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation and Chairman of the Emirates Foundation, Think Science 2016 is a three-day event held from April 17-20 at the Dubai World Trade Center. Combining science and fun, it encourages cooperation and interaction between young scientists and the science and technology business sector. The event has gathered more than 550 UAE youth to showcase their inventions for the national science fair and event.
Dr. Lamya N. Fawwaz, Vice President for Institutional Advancement and Public Affairs, Masdar Institute, said, “Our involvement with the Think Science 2016 is motivated by the importance the UAE places on capacity building and education, especially in science and technology. By interacting with young students at such events, we aim to fuel their interest in innovative science and technology. We believe research-based institutions such as Masdar Institute can play a more effective role in stimulating the young minds and guiding them towards disciplines that are not only intellectually stimulating and professionally rewarding, but also important for the country’s knowledge-economy transformation.”
At Masdar Institute’s stand, representatives drew attention to the potential impact that youth can have though a pursuit of graduate-level research into sustainability technologies. The Institute, which has already produced several sustainability innovations at its campus in Abu Dhabi, welcomed the enthusiasm shown by visitors to the stand. Dr. Ken Volk, Outreach Manager, Masdar Institute, led the Masdar Institute ‘Go Green’ quiz competition, which witnessed enthusiastic participation by students of all ages.
Dr Volk said: “The competition was an exciting opportunity for young students at the Think Science Connect event to think green, and to see the value of adopting sustainable lifestyles. We hope the impact the competition made on the youth will remain with them and guide their future.”