Abu Dhabi: A total of Dh132,000 has been awarded to the 18 winning teams of the inaugural UAE undergraduate research competition during a ceremony hosted by Abu Dhabi University in the capital.
The event was attended by Shaikh Hazza Bin Hamdan Bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
He competition, held under the patronage of Shaikha Latifa Bint Hamdan Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, recognised outstanding undergraduate research projects form any higher education institute across the UAE.
Ali Saeed Bin Harmal Al Dhaheri, chairman of Abu Dhabi University’s executive board, stressed the significance of the first UAE undergraduate student research competition, as it encouraged students from various higher education institutions around the UAE to explore the different areas of scientific research, using their skills and expertise to monitor, analyse, and aid national development issues.
Exceptional research ideas were presented during the competition by 108 students from universities across the UAE.
“Research is a fundamental pillar of Abu Dhabi University’s vision and this competition derives its importance from that directive. As part of the Step up Shabab initiative, it motivated university students to from research teams and compete in this first of its kind nationwide competition, promoting innovation and creativity among all participants and making them a part of the future’s specialised cadre of qualified researchers,” Al Dhaheri explained.
The competition has emphasised original research projects in six categories: Education and languages, humanities and social science, natural and health services, engineering, business administration and information technology.
“This competition is the first of its kind across the UAE. It is creative, absorbing and challenging and has allowed students to experience first-hand the process of scholarly exploration, enhance their critical thinking, and build confidence in their research abilities,” said Dr Nabeel Ebrahim, chancellor of the Abu Dhabi University.
On his part, Dr Abdul Mohsen Onsy, dean of the college of research and graduate studies, said “108 students from eight universities across the UAE took part in this unique competition, during which, 53 research projects were presented in six categories”.
Each of the participating student research teams presented their research projects to a specialised judging committee of more than 41 judges from academia and industry, who selected 18 winning teams. The first, second and third winners in each category of the competition were awarded Dh10,000, Dh7,000 and Dh5,000 respectively.”
