American School of Dubai opens new Center for Design and Innovation for Public Purpose

The American School of Dubai (ASD) is ushering in a new era of education with the opening of its Center for Design and Innovation for Public Purpose, a contemporary facility committed to fostering innovation, creative problem-solving, financial acumen, and entrepreneurship in an ever-evolving world.

In a rapidly evolving world, the demand for forward-thinking education has never been greater. The Center for Design and Innovation for Public Purpose is an aspirational hub where students collaborate with industry mentors, faculty, and community partners to design solutions for real-world challenges.

Rooted in the school’s 2023-2026 strategic plan, the Framework for the Future, the center is a testament to ASD’s dedication to engaging and inspiring students beyond the classroom. “This center is dedicated to our students. We want to give them a space to pursue projects they deeply care about and to lead with purpose”, says ASD Superintendent, Dr. Stephen Druggan.

In Middle School, the center will provide courses in two- and three-dimensional art, digital design, and maker technology.

These offerings will lay the foundation for a transformative learning experience in design thinking, allowing students to create meaningful and impactful projects.

“I’m most excited about the incredible projects we’ll be able to bring to life in this center. Having a dedicated space with specialised equipment creates an environment where we can think big and experiment boldly,” shares Eshaal ’29.

In High School, the center will offer a scaffolded curriculum that will include a signature Grade 10 project where students can collaborate with Dubai-based organisations to develop innovative solutions for authentic problems.

In Grades 11 and 12, students can apply for the incubator programme, an intensive experience that takes their Grade 10 projects from ideation to prototyping and testing — closely mirroring programmes at renowned institutions like MIT and Stanford.

“This center represents a space where imagination and innovation coexist, allowing students to explore their creative potential,” reflects Design & Innovation Teacher, Kathleen Mills.

“I feel an incredible sense of gratitude to our community for supporting the needs of our students, and to be part of a vision that prioritises innovation and creativity as essential components of education.”