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Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation Hosts Specialized Educational Workshops for Teachers and School Leaders as Part of "Pioneers of Excellence" Initiative

Workshops spotlight the role of AI in education and highlight best practices from Hamdan Award-winning schools. Dubai, UAE, April 24, 2025: In line with its mission to empower educational communities to adapt to the rapid transformations in the learning landscape, Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation for Medical and Educational Sciences has launched a series of specialized workshops as part of the “Pioneers of Excellence” program. The initiative aims to promote a culture of excellence and support education reform grounded in knowledge and innovation. Dr. Khalifa Al Suwaidi, Executive Director of Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation for Medical and Educational Sciences, stated: “In today’s fast-evolving educational landscape, continuous investment in the professional growth of teachers and administrators is vital. These workshops are not merely conventional training platforms; they are strategic tools designed to bring about transformative change in learning environments and cultivate educational communities that are more innovative and better prepared for the demands of the future. We are pleased to see such strong engagement from educators, which reflects growing awareness of the importance of professional development in shaping inclusive and forward-looking education systems.” The workshop series featured two standout training sessions. The first, designed for teachers, was titled “Artificial Intelligence in Education.” It explored the transformative potential of AI technologies in enhancing teaching and learning practices. The session provided hands-on demonstrations of AI tools that can personalize educational content, analyze student performance, and boost classroom engagement, all while showcasing live examples of effective tech integration in learning. The second session, “Leading Models from Hamdan Award-Winning Schools,” was tailored for school principals and focused on the EFQM excellence model endorsed by the Foundation. It presented case studies from award-winning schools, illustrating how a culture of excellence can be institutionalized to improve leadership quality, foster innovation, and promote continuous improvement and accountability. These workshops are aligned with the Foundation’s broader vision to position the educational experience in the region as a global benchmark—through technology integration, dissemination of best practices, and institutional capacity-building aligned with the highest international standards. They also reinforce the Foundation’s commitment to translating recognition and award platforms into actionable, field-based impact through strategic partnerships and sustainable development initiatives.

Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation honours 61 winners in its local, regional, and international educational awards

Dubai World Trade Centre, Dubai, UAE, April 23, 2025: Sheikh Rashid bin Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Supreme Chairman of the Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation for Medical and Educational Sciences, today (Wednesday, April 23) honoured 61 winners in the Foundation's educational awards across the local, Gulf, and international levels in applied research for nurturing talent. Additionally, 13 student teams from the Arab world who won the Future Science Challenge competition were felicitated. The awards ceremony took place at the Rashid Hall at the Dubai World Trade Centre. The ceremony was attended by HE Lieutenant General Dhahi Khalfan Tamim, Deputy Chief of Police and General Security in Dubai, HE Saeed Al Kindi, former Speaker of the UAE Federal National Council, HE Sarah Al Amiri, UAE Minister of State for Public Education and Advanced Technology, HE Hajer Ahmed Al Thehli, Secretary-General of Education and Human Resources Council (EHRC), HE Humaid Al Qatami, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Foundation, His Excellency Dr. Mohammed bin Saud bin Abdulaziz Al-Moqbel, Director General of the Arab Bureau of Education for the Gulf States, HE Rashid bin Fahd, along with several senior officials from the UAE representatives from international, regional, and local organizations, and a large audience of students and their families. In his speech during the ceremony, Sheikh Rashid bin Hamdan Al Maktoum said, “In each edition of the Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum Awards, we celebrate creativity and excellence, honouring a select group of innovators who have worked hard and contributed to the advancement of education and science. We are pleased in this edition to celebrate 61 winners from local, Gulf, and international levels, alongside 13 student teams from the Arab world who won the Future Science Challenge. This educational achievement is the result of sincere efforts and promising abilities that deserve recognition and honour.” Sheikh Rashid bin Hamdan added, “Supporting education and empowering leading educational practices remains at the core of our vision at the Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation for Medical and Educational Sciences, driven by the empowerment that education receives from the wise leadership of the UAE. Therefore, the awards system we launch complements our training and innovation programs, reflecting our steadfast commitment to enhancing the quality of education and motivating excellence in light of contemporary educational and cultural challenges.” He also stated, “As part of this commitment, we are proud to sponsor one of UNESCO's most significant global studies on the conditions of teachers, and to launch a new award in partnership with the Arab League Educational, Cultural and Scientific Organization (ALECSO) to encourage digital innovations in education. We also introduced a new award for outstanding educators in the Gulf, in cooperation with the Arab Bureau of Education for the Gulf States. Furthermore, we directed the Board of Trustees of the Foundation to launch a research grant in health worth one million dirhams, stemming from our deep belief in the role of scientific research in supporting preventive policies and enhancing the health system.” Sheikh Rashid concluded by saying, “We congratulate all the winners and remind them that this honour is only the beginning of a path of sustainable excellence. Together, we carry the message of excellence, high morals, and creative minds, and together, we will create the generations of the future.” For his part, His Excellency His Excellency Dr. Mohammed bin Saud bin Abdulaziz Al-Moqbel, gave a speech in which he said, “We gather today on this blessed occasion to honour excellence, revive hope, and celebrate knowledge and giving. We honour a distinguished group of students, teachers, and schools who have illuminated the path to the future with their knowledge and diligence, embodying the highest forms of creativity. This recognition is the fruit of a long journey of hard work and dedication in the service of education and represents the vision of the Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation for Medical and Educational Sciences, which has been, since its inception, a beacon of excellence and a launchpad for quality initiatives.” He added, “Hamdan bin Rashid Educational Excellence Award is not just a celebratory event but an effective tool for driving educational development across the region and a living proof of what fruitful partnerships can achieve, as evidenced by the productive cooperation between the foundation and the Arab Bureau of Education for the Gulf States. We look forward to continuing this blessed journey, serving the generations to come and enhancing the status of education in our nations. On this occasion, we remember the late Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum and ask Allah to reward him abundantly for the good seed he planted, which continues to yield knowledge, excellence, and creativity.” His Excellency Humaid Mohammed Al Qatami, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation for Medical and Educational Sciences, expressed the Foundation's pride in continuing to recognize distinguished individuals in the educational field. HE Al Qatami said, “Today, we celebrate a new group of distinguished individuals during the closing ceremony of the Foundation, which continues to fulfil its mission of promoting educational excellence and embedding a culture of innovation and creativity. These awards were established over a quarter of a century ago by the late Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum, may his soul rest in peace, to serve as a reference of academic leadership, a lever for performance improvement, and an investment in creative minds. The Foundation is making steady progress to deepen its impact locally and regionally, within a strategy that responds to the changes of the times and meets the aspirations of the future. The diversity of the submissions reflects the global, regional, and local educational community's confidence in the Foundation's leading role, confirming its position as a catalyst for excellence and knowledge.” HE Al Qatami added, “I extend my gratitude to Sheikh Rashid bin Hamdan Al Maktoum for his continuous support, and to all the partners from educational and media institutions, whose cooperation has played a key role in the continued success of this program, reflecting our shared commitment to the values of excellence, empowering future generations, and building a bright future based on knowledge and innovation.” An Australian research paper won the international award for applied research in nurturing talent. The number of winners in the local awards was 42 from a total of 195 participants across all award categories. In the Gulf awards, there were 17 winners out of 98 participants.

Sheikh Rashid bin Hamdan Meets and Sends Off Hamdan Center for Giftedness and Innovation Team Ahead of FLL World Finals in Houston

Dubai, UAE, 12 April 2025: Sheikh Rashid bin Hamdan Al Maktoum, Supreme President of the Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation for Medical and Educational Sciences, met with the student team from the Hamdan Bin Rashid Center for Giftedness and Innovation, who are set to represent the UAE at the FLL World Finals taking place next week in Houston, USA. The visit comes in celebration of the team’s exceptional achievement, having advanced to the global competition after winning both the local and national robotics championships. The meeting took place today (12 April) at the Foundation’s headquarters in Dubai, in the presence of Her Excellency Aisha Miran is the Director General of the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) and Dr. Khalifa Al Suwaidi, Executive Director of the Foundation. During the visit, Sheikh Rashid engaged with the students and the administrative and technical teams, reviewing their preparations and expressing deep pride in their success. He commended their dedication and praised their efforts in qualifying to represent the UAE at the international level, wishing them continued success and honorable results that reflect the scientific ambition and capabilities of the nation’s youth. According to program organizers, 169 teams from across the Emirates participated in the national FLL competitions, which unfolded over two stages. Of these, 40 teams reached the final round to compete for the national championship. The competition assessed participants across four main areas, including robot programming and design, innovative engineering projects aligned with this year’s theme—marine life and its preservation—and values of teamwork, collaboration, and creativity. Hamdan Bin Rashid Center for Giftedness and Innovation team delivered an outstanding performance, securing second place in the Champion’s Award and first place in both the Robot Game and Robot Design categories at the local level. They went on to claim the Champion’s Award nationally, along with second place in the Robot Game. Members of the student team expressed pride in their accomplishments and shared their enthusiasm for the upcoming global finals. They reaffirmed their commitment to further developing their skills, refining their strategies, and presenting their innovative project before an esteemed panel of international judges.

Hamdan Foundation Explores the Impact of AI on the Future of Higher Education

Al Ain, UAE, March 5, 2025 – As part of its commitment to shaping the future of education, Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation participated in a panel discussion organized by the United Arab Emirates University (UAEU) titled “Innovation in Higher Education: The Role of AI in Reshaping Higher Education”. The session brought together a distinguished group of experts to explore how artificial intelligence (AI) is redefining the landscape of higher education, transforming learning methodologies, teaching approaches, and the management of academic institutions. Dr. Mariam Al Ghawi, Director of Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Centre for Giftedness and Innovation, spoke during the panel discussion about AI’s potential to enhance student success, improve faculty productivity, and elevate the quality of student services. Key topics addressed included the transformative impact of AI on learning and teaching methods, as well as the administration of academic institutions. Experts examined AI's capabilities in driving student success, boosting faculty efficiency, and refining student services, while emphasizing the need to balance technological innovation with the human element in education. The discussion also covered the role of smart learning tools, administrative automation, personalized education, and the future of traditional campuses as AI continues to reshape higher education. Hamdan Foundation remains at the forefront of fostering dialogue, collaboration, and innovation to ensure that technology serves as a catalyst for expanding access to education, enhancing the efficiency of the learning process, and delivering personalized educational experiences—while preserving the fundamental human-centered values of education.

Hamdan Foundation Students Represent UAE at the FLL International Competition in Houston

Dubai, UAE, 10 February 2025: Hamdan Center for Giftedness and Innovation team secured first place in the national qualifiers of the FIRST LEGO League (FLL) competition, held at Raffles Hotel in Dubai. With this victory, the team has qualified to represent the United Arab Emirates at the international championship, set to take place in Houston, USA, in April 2025. On this occasion, His Excellency Dr. Khalifa Al Suwaidi, Executive Director of Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation for Medical and Educational Sciences, congratulated the students who claimed first place in the national qualifiers of the FIRST LEGO League (FLL), emphasizing that this achievement reflects their excellence and creativity in science and innovation. His Excellency stated: “Undoubtedly, student participation in such competitions contributes to the development of their scientific and intellectual skills, fosters a spirit of competition and distinction, and highlights their talents on both local and global levels. This achievement aligns with the Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Center for Giftedness and Innovation’s commitment to supporting talented students, refining their skills, encouraging innovation, and showcasing their capabilities to maximize their potential. We congratulate our students on this well-deserved victory and extend our gratitude and appreciation to the organizers of this event for their efforts in ensuring its success and achieving its objectives.” His Excellency also praised the outstanding performance of students from Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Center for Giftedness and Innovation in local and national competitions this year, as well as the remarkable results they have achieved in previous editions of the championship at the local, national, and international levels. The FIRST LEGO League competition targets gifted students excelling in robotics at Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Center for Giftedness and Innovation. Participants gain real-world experiences that enhance their problem-solving skills through a structured global robotics program, equipping students and educators to build a better future. The competition aims to boost students' confidence, expand their knowledge, develop lifelong learning habits, and encourage experimentation while enhancing their skills in critical thinking, programming, and design through hands-on training in science, technology, engineering, mathematics (STEM), and robotics.

Under the Patronage of His Highness Sheikh Rashid bin Hamdan Al Maktoum: Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation Celebrates the Winners of its Medical Awards 2024 Marking the First Edition Under Its New Corporate Identity Unveiled Last Year

Dubai, United Arab Emirates, 30 January 2025: Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Rashid bin Hamdan Al Maktoum, Supreme President of Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation for Medical and Educational Sciences, the Foundation hosted a prestigious ceremony today (Thursday, January 30, 2025) at Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences in Dubai to honor the winners of the 2024 Medical Excellence Awards. Marking the first edition since the awards’ integration under the Foundation’s new corporate identity, the event reaffirms its commitment to excellence and innovation in medical and educational fields, strengthening its role in advancing scientific progress locally and globally. His Highness Sheikh Rashid bin Hamdan Al Maktoum stated in his speech: “The awards we present today are not merely a recognition of outstanding winners but also a message of gratitude and appreciation for their efforts, which have contributed to enhancing the quality of healthcare services, advancing medical research, and alleviating patients’ suffering. It is a tribute to dedication and sincere work within an advanced healthcare system, which enjoys the utmost care and support from His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates and His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President of the United Arab Emirates, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai as well as their Highnesses, the Rulers of the Emirates.” His Highness Sheikh Rashid added: “As we celebrate the recognition of these distinguished individuals—scientists, researchers, doctors, administrators, and institutions in the healthcare sector—we are also celebrating a noble journey of giving that began with the blessed initiative of the late Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum—may God rest his soul. This journey has garnered the attention, encouragement, and support of the wise government and society, transforming into an institution aspiring to achieve sustainability in enhancing healthcare services. Through a framework of awards and programs that promote medical awareness, it encourages and values the efforts of those who have carried the responsibility of development and innovation, elevating their achievements to the horizons of pride.” His Excellency Abdulrahman bin Mohamed Al Owais, Minister of Health and Prevention, also delivered a speech during the ceremony, stating: It’s truly an honour to stand before you today at the closing ceremony of the 24th edition of the Sheikh Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Award for Medical Sciences. Over the years, this award has become a symbol of medical and scientific excellence, and a testament to the UAE’s commitment to promoting innovation, advancing scientific research, and improving healthcare both locally and globally.” His Excellency Al Owais added: “Over the past twenty-four years, this award has proven its vital role in recognizing the most significant medical and scientific advancements and celebrating the brilliant minds that have shaped the future of healthcare. It has become a platform for honouring those who have dedicated their lives to improving quality of life and finding innovative solutions to today’s health challenges. And today, as we recognize a distinguished group of scientists and researchers, we reaffirm that the UAE will always be a hub for excellence, creativity, and a home for talent committed to building a healthier and more sustainable future.” A Milestone in the Awards’ Evolution This ceremony marks the first edition following the integration of the Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation for Medical and Educational Sciences with the Medical Excellence Awards, unifying efforts under a more comprehensive and impactful identity. This step has broadened the awards’ scope, attracting high-caliber research and innovation, elevating their prestige to a global level. The event featured a visual presentation highlighting the winners’ groundbreaking contributions to healthcare, followed by the award distribution, honoring exceptional individuals and projects that have made a tangible impact in the field. A Forward-Looking Vision for Advancing Innovation and Medical Excellence His Excellency Humaid Mohammed Al Qatami, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the foundation stated: “This ceremony marks a historic moment for our Foundation. It is not just an occasion to honor the winners but a reaffirmation of our deep commitment to continuing the legacy of the late Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum, may he rest in peace, in supporting medical and scientific excellence. These awards serve as a catalyst for innovation in the healthcare sector, providing a platform to encourage pioneering research and groundbreaking initiatives that contribute to improving lives and strengthening communities.” Dr. Khalifa Al Suwaidi, Executive Director of Hamdan Foundation, stated: “At the Foundation, we view these awards as an integral part of our strategic vision to foster a culture of innovation in the healthcare sector and build strong partnerships with research institutions and academic centers worldwide. While we honor outstanding achievements, our greater mission is to lay the foundation for a more advanced future by supporting and developing a healthcare system that meets global standards.” Dr. Al Suwaidi explained that the awards not only recognize excellence and leadership in the medical field but also identify and inspire innovators within the healthcare ecosystem. By encouraging best practices and groundbreaking contributions, these awards ultimately enhance the quality of services in this vital sector. Honoring Excellence Across Multiple Award Categories The winners were recognized across various categories, including The Arab Award for Research in Healthcare, The Arab Award in Genetics, The Best Research in Healthcare Award, The Innovation in Healthcare Award, and The Hamdan Award for Distinguished Personalities in Healthcare. This year’s edition saw outstanding submissions featuring innovative solutions and impactful research that have contributed to advancing healthcare. The remarkable quality of entries has further reinforced the awards’ status as a premier platform for recognizing medical excellence across the Arab world. Winners of the 2024 Medical Excellence Awards This year’s list of winners includes a distinguished group of researchers and specialists whose contributions have significantly advanced their respective fields. The Arab Award in Genetics was awarded to Professor André Megarbane in recognition of his pioneering role in human genetics research. His outstanding contributions have enhanced scientific knowledge and improved early diagnosis of genetic disorders across the Arab world. The Arab Award for Research in Healthcare honored two groundbreaking studies: • A research team from King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Centre for their study on the challenges of interpreting genetic variants in patients with Mendelian diseases. • A joint research team from Hamad Medical Corporation (Qatar), Kuwait University, and Istanbul Medipol University, for their study on transitioning to oral antibiotics in Gram-negative bacteremia cases. The Best Research in Healthcare Award (UAE) recognized: • A study from Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, which focused on improving care for testicular torsion cases through a multidisciplinary approach. • A study from the University of Sharjah, Al Qassimi Hospital, and Tawam Hospital, which introduced an AI-driven innovation for pneumonia treatment. The Hamdan Award for Distinguished Personalities in Healthcare was presented to: • Dr. Ali Abdulkarim Al Obaidli, Consultant in Nephrology and Organ Transplantation. • Dr. Fatheya Al Awadi, Consultant in Endocrinology and Diabetes. Both were recognized for their outstanding contributions to healthcare development in the UAE. The Innovation in Healthcare Award was awarded to: • The "UAE Lung Transplant Program – Hope with Every Breath", which has set a successful model for providing advanced solutions for patients in need of lung transplants. • The "Diabetes Risk Calculator for Fasting During Ramadan" project, which developed innovative digital tools to enhance diabetes management during the holy month. At the conclusion of the ceremony, the winners emphasized that the Medical Excellence Awards of the Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation for Medical and Educational Sciences serve as a key catalyst for fostering a culture of research and innovation. They highlighted the awards’ vital role in supporting the UAE’s vision of becoming a global hub for medical and scientific excellence.

Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation Organizes ‘Winners’ Majlis’

Dubai, United Arab Emirates, 1 February 2025: Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation for Medical and Educational Sciences hosted a panel discussion titled "Winners’ Majlis" yesterday, Friday, at the Mohammed Bin Rashid Library in Dubai. The event brought together the winners of the 2024 Medical Excellence Awards for an engaging discussion. Dr. Salama Al Muhairi, Director of Medical Excellence at Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation emphasized that organizing this session aligns with the Foundation’s commitment to fostering knowledge exchange and raising awareness about the latest achievements in the medical field. She highlighted the importance of up-to-date information in medical research and innovative advancements in enhancing public health awareness, elevating health culture within society, and supporting an environment of innovation and excellence in the healthcare sector. Dr. Al Muhairi noted that the session served as a unique platform for the winners to share their insights and ideas with the medical community and the public, reinforcing the Foundation’s role in promoting health awareness and enriching discussions on scientific research and medical development in the Arab world. She added that the session provided an in-depth look into the scientific and professional journeys of the award recipients, as they shared key milestones, challenges they faced, and their vision for the future of the healthcare sector. This exchange offered attendees a valuable opportunity to learn from their inspiring experiences and pioneering achievements. The Winners’ Majlis, through Healthy Podcast, hosted Professor André Megarbane, recipient of the Arab Award in Genetics, who spoke about his journey in human genetics—one that began with an academic passion and evolved into pioneering achievements that have contributed to the advancement of early diagnostic methods for genetic disorders in the Arab world. During the session, he outlined the evolution of his research, emphasizing the profound impact that genetic studies can have on humanity by enhancing early diagnosis and treatment strategies for genetic diseases. Professor Megarbane also discussed the challenges facing scientific research in this field, particularly in the Arab world, where consanguineous marriages remain a significant factor affecting genetic health. He praised the vital role played by the Centre for Arab Genomic Studies in supporting scientific research and improving understanding of genetic diseases. He further emphasized the importance of collaboration between academic and medical institutions to foster innovation in this domain. The Winners’ Majlis also hosted Dr. Ali Abdulkarim Al Obaidli, Consultant in Nephrology and Organ Transplantation, and Dr. Fatheya Al Awadi, Consultant in Endocrinology and Diabetes—both recipients of Hamdan Award for Distinguished Personalities in Healthcare. The discussion provided deep insights into the significance of the award and its role in recognizing the exceptional contributions of doctors and specialists who are shaping the healthcare sector—not only through their medical practices but also through scientific research and initiatives that drive innovation and sustainability in healthcare. The two esteemed guests shared the beginnings of their medical journeys, reflecting on how their studies and professional experiences influenced their choice of specialties, in which they are now recognized as pioneers. They also highlighted the key challenges they faced throughout their careers while acknowledging the remarkable advancements in the UAE’s healthcare sector, which have solidified the country’s position as a global hub for medical excellence. Both speakers underscored the importance of supporting the next generation of doctors and specialists, emphasizing the need for continuous education and training to empower young medical professionals and sustain the momentum of innovation in the medical field.

Hamdan Foundation Participates in the 14th ALECSO Conference of Arab Ministers of Education in Qatar

Dubai, UAE, 9 January 2025: Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation for Medical and Educational Sciences concluded its participation in the 14th ALECSO Conference of Arab Ministers of Education. The event, organized by Arab League Educational, Cultural and Scientific Organization (ALECSO) in collaboration with the Ministry of Education and Higher Education in Qatar and Qatar National Commission for Education, Culture and Science, was held in Doha from January 5 to 7, 2025. The conference witnessed high-level participation from ministers of education and representatives from Arab countries, alongside a distinguished group of experts and specialists in education. Dr. Khalifa Al Suwaidi: A Holistic Approach to Achieving Educational Excellence Dr. Khalifa Al Suwaidi, Executive Director of the Foundation, remarked, "The Foundation's presence at the conference is a response to ALECSO's invitation, recognizing the Foundation as a leading Arab institution dedicated to promoting inclusive education and empowering teachers. This aligns with the conference's theme, 'Inclusive Education and Teacher Empowerment: A Strategic Vision for Education in the Arab World'. During a dedicated session titled 'How Do We Achieve Educational Excellence?' Dr. Al-Suwaidi highlighted the Foundation's holistic approach to achieving excellence in education by integrating curriculum development, teacher empowerment, and the enhancement of educational infrastructure." In his speech, Dr. Khalifa Al Suwaidi stated, "Educational excellence demands a comprehensive vision that transcends conventional standards, emphasizing teacher empowerment and the support of learners through advanced, inclusive educational environments. Through its programs, Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation for Medical and Educational Sciences aims to provide innovative educational solutions that meet future needs while fostering Arab cooperation in this vital field." Dr. Khalifa Al Suwaidi added, "Our programs, such as Global Talent Mentoring and Hamdan Talent Scale, along with the educational awards we offer, aim to build a generation capable of facing future challenges while strengthening regional and international cooperation to drive innovation in education." Dr. Al-Suwaidi's presentation focused on the Foundation's initiatives aligned with the conference's pillars. He elaborated on the Foundation's awards, which form a cornerstone of enhancing educational excellence. The awards span local categories for students, teachers, schools, and educational institutions in collaboration with the UAE Ministry of Education, as well as Gulf-level awards in partnership with the Arab Bureau of Education for the Gulf States, supporting educational excellence regionally. The Foundation also offers seven prestigious international awards totaling $750,000. Key awards include Hamdan-UNESCO Prize for Teacher Development, promoting global innovation in teaching; Hamdan-ALECSO Award for Distinguished Educational Research, supporting innovative research in education; and Hamdan Award for Digital Innovations in Education, encouraging digital solutions in education. Other awards include Hamdan – ICESCO Prize for Voluntary Development of Education Facilities in Islamic Countries, recognizing efforts to enhance learning environments; School Global Award Initiative of Talented Education, promoting school initiatives supporting gifted students; Applied Research Global Award of Talented Education, spotlighting research serving gifted individuals; and EFQM-Hamdan Global Educational Award, which seeks to enhance educational quality and honor distinguished educational institutions worldwide. Supporting Innovation and Enhancing International Partnerships The Foundation's participation also showcased pioneering programs, such as the Master of Innovative Education program, developed in collaboration with the United Arab Emirates University to train educational professionals. The Foundation emphasized the importance of international collaboration and innovation support through programs like the Global Talent Mentorship Program, fostering connections between talented students and global STEMM experts. Additionally, the UAE Fab Lab was highlighted as an innovation incubator, transforming creative ideas into prototypes. The Foundation's Commitment to Inclusive Education Leadership Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation's participation in the ALECSO Conference underscores its enduring commitment to supporting inclusive education, empowering teachers, and nurturing gifted individuals. Through its diverse initiatives, international awards, and innovative programs, the Foundation seeks to bring about a qualitative shift in the Arab educational landscape, preparing a generation capable of creativity, innovation, and confidently meeting future challenges.

Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation Announces Innovators 2024 Competition Results

Dubai, UAE, 2 January 2025: Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation for Medical and Educational Sciences announced the results of the seventh edition of the Innovators 2024 competition. Following the evaluation of projects that advanced to the final stage and underwent the implementation phase, winners were selected based on criteria including creativity, social impact, quality of execution, and innovation efficiency. On this occasion, His Excellency Dr. Khalifa Ali Al Suwaidi, Executive Director of Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation for Medical and Educational Sciences, stated: “We are delighted to announce the results of the seventh cycle of the Innovators competition, which began in June last year with the participation of 137 students from schools across the UAE. The performance showcased a remarkable level of skills and knowledge among students, contributing to the competition's development and expansion. We extend our congratulations to the winners, appreciating their efforts and enthusiasm in demonstrating their innovative talents. Looking ahead, the competition aims to broaden its horizons to inspire students towards creative thinking and to provide an enabling environment for transforming their ideas into real-life projects that support sustainable development and enhance national capabilities in innovation and technology.” His Excellency added: “Hamdan Bin Rashid Foundation for Medical and Educational Sciences reaffirms its commitment to fostering excellence, nurturing innovators, and contributing to efforts and initiatives that advance education. We congratulate the winners and wish them continued success, while expressing gratitude to the judging panels and team members for their dedication in ensuring the competition's success across all stages.” The Innovators 2024 competition awarded Abdullah Ahmed Al Hammadi and Fatima Rashid Awad for their project, Aboory; Mohammed Adnan Mohammed and Ardzin Nathaniel Omaldi for their project, MindSync; and Nabeel Nadeem Al Qadi, Alaa Salah Abdulaziz, and Youssef Rasim Al Shaki for their project, Smart Modular Shading System. Encouragement awards, including the "Sustainability Award" and the "Community Service Award," will be announced at a later date. All winning teams will be honored at a grand ceremony during Innovation Week in February 2025. The competition’s evaluation process was overseen by a distinguished panel of experienced and qualified judges. Out of 137 participating teams, 45 met the competition criteria, with 20 progressing to the first evaluation phase and nine advancing to the final implementation and evaluation stage, resulting in three winning teams. The Emirates Fab Lab, headquartered at Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation for Medical and Educational Sciences, was established in alignment with the National Innovation Strategy. As the first comprehensive educational innovation lab in the UAE to achieve membership in the global Fab Lab organization, it is certified according to international standards for Fab Lab centers worldwide. The lab fosters an innovation-friendly environment by providing community centers equipped with the latest devices, tools, and software, alongside training courses in digital manufacturing for all societal segments.

Hamdan Foundation Unveils "Advanced Education: Innovation in Teaching, Leadership, Technology, and Assessment" Book

Dubai, United Arab Emirates, October 1, 2024: Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation for Medical and Educational Sciences has announced launched the book titled "Advanced Education: Innovation in Teaching, Leadership, Technology, and Assessment," in celebration of Teacher's Day, which falls on the upcoming October 5. The book was authored by a distinguished group of academics in collaboration with the foundation. Aiming at teachers, educational leaders, policymakers, and students in educational programs, the book offers valuable insights into peer evaluation, active learning strategies, educational governance, and the integration of technology. It also presents specialized research and studies on assessment, serving as a comprehensive resource for understanding contemporary educational practices for both students and professionals in the field. The book launch ceremony was attended by senior officials from the foundation, relevant stakeholders, academics, educational institutions, media representatives, and educational professionals. Commenting on the book’s release, Dr. Khalifa Al Suwaidi, Secretary-General and CEO of Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation for Medical and Educational Sciences, said: “The launch of the book Advanced Education: Innovation in Teaching, Leadership, Technology, and Assessment, authored by a distinguished group of academics under the foundation’s patronage, marks a significant contribution to the educational sector. It aligns with one of the key strategic goals of the Hamdan bin Rashid Foundation for Medical and Educational Sciences: fostering a knowledge-based culture centered on intellectual engagement and supporting all initiatives aimed at enhancing and advancing the educational field." His Excellency added, “We sincerely appreciate and acknowledge the efforts of the esteemed educators who contributed to the authorship and production of this book with exceptional professionalism and precision: Dr. Asmaa Khalil Abdullah, Dr. Ahmed Al Kaabi, and Dr. Rashid Al Riyaami. We extend our best wishes for their continued success in their endeavors to further the educational journey." Dr. Al Suwaidi further explained that the book is organized into four main sections, each focusing on innovative approaches in teaching, leadership, assessment, and the use of educational technologies, including chat-based programs. The book offers a comprehensive overview of recent advancements in education, emphasizing the crucial role of innovation. It provides practical insights for educators on how to integrate these new methods and technologies into their teaching, leadership, and assessment practices, making it an essential reference for education professionals. The book equips them with the knowledge and tools necessary to drive sustainable change and improvement in their educational environments. The Executive Director of the foundation pointed out that the book will be available to readers on the foundation's website, where interested individuals can download and benefit from it. The book launch event also included a presentation session by the authors, where they discussed its objectives, methodology, and areas of benefit.