UAE Space Agency reaffirms commitment to space education programmes

UAE Space Agency has reaffirmed its commitment to driving innovation and space education programmes.
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Driving innovation and developing world-class space education continue to be two key focus areas for the UAE Space Agency, according to Chief Innovation Officer, Sheikha Al Maskari, who was speaking today at the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and United Nations Office for Outer Space (UNOOSA) 2nd Symposium, being held at the Rosewood Hotel in Abu Dhabi. 

Al Maskari explained that the UAE Space Agency aims to inspire the next generation of pioneers and leaders who will drive the development of the space sector as well bring new ideas and fresh thinking. 

The UAE Space Agency sees that the development of space technologies and the space sector are catalysts for economic development and diversification - by creating job opportunities and enabling scientists and engineers to become leaders of an industry that can bring huge benefits to people’s daily lives. Al Maskari described how many technologies that we use today stem from the developments made within the space industry. 

She commented: “We want to focus on raising awareness on the importance of the space sector through education and through communicating the impact it has on day to day life.” 

Al Maskari added: “Curriculums need to be revised to promote the field of space and accommodate the ever changing nature of the space industry. It is important to begin STEM education at a very young age, and it is vital that we get everyone in the community involved so that they feel that they are a part of the space programme." 

“We see space as a key element for diversification and transformation of our economy from a resources based economy to a knowledge based economy. Our largest investment within the sector is our human capital and developing the UAE’s capabilities. We are doing that by working in partnership with the education bodies within the UAE as well as entering into international partnerships with space leading nations for knowledge transfer,” said Sheikha Al Maskari. 

The UAE Space Agency is working closely with schools, education councils and the Ministry of Education to ensure that STEM education is a key focus area. Education experts are advising on curriculum developments that will include more on space science so that children are taught and inspired at an early age about the opportunities that the space industry brings. Special campaigns to engage with school children are also being introduced to keep the education fun and exciting. 

All key aspects of the Mars Hope project will have involve UAE engineers to ensure they achieve the main objective of knowledge gain and transfer. UAE engineers are involved in the development of the spacecraft and its key components and the instrumentation.