Humanity is currently facing some of its toughest challenges that threaten its own existence; infectious diseases, poverty, un-employment, inequality, sustainability, food and water security, among others. The COVID-19 pandemic has deepened many of those threats, and has changed the way we see our future.
Paradigm-shifting innovations require that we abandon old ways of solving familiar problems, and look for inspiration in unfamiliar territories. To redefine current boundaries, and break thinking chains, the first iteration of the Pathfinders Program is designed around humanity’s yet most daring adventure of creating and sustaining a human colony on Mars. We can think of Mars as a fresh start for humanity, but we can also think of it as a place of new inspirations for solving some of Earth’s toughest challenges. The challenges facing us to achieve the momentous dream of building a human colony on the red planet are in many ways similar to the challenges facing us here on Earth.
The Pathfinders Program will be held at the UAEU Science & Innovation Park, Al Ain from March - August 2021. The program will use a blended delivery method of both online & face-to-face. The select participants, otherwise known as pathfinders will go through an immersive experience to find their own passion and carve their own impact path. Pathfinders will be able to choose between four Impact Paths:
Re-imagining ways to Extend Life through technology integration in healthcare.
Conceiving innovative means to Sustain Life by ensuring food security for sustainable human-development.
Envisioning strategies to Enhance Life through youth employment and economic growth.
Designing concepts to Expand Life through space exploration and artificial intelligence.
For further information, please click here.
The Pathfinders Program is a full-time six-month unique learning experience which
starts in March 2021 and concludes in August 2021.
The Pathfinder Program aims to be as inclusive as possible. The program cost is estimated
at more than 35,000 AED per participant. Selected participants will pay only 6,000
AED towards the cost of the program. Students who successfully complete the program
will then be reimbursed with between 50 - 75% (3,000-4,500 AED) of the paid fees depending
on their performance in the program, students who develop solutions that are adopted
by challenge holders or industry key players will be reimbursed with the full fees
of the program, so 100% (6,000 AED).
Financial support will be available for some students in the form of a scholarship
(this will include the full program fees of 6,000 AED), however, this will be assessed
on a needs basis and will also be determined by their commitment to successfully complete
the program.
Thank you for your interest, for further information on the UAEU Expo 2020 Hub, please contact us via email or come and visit us at the UAEU Science & Innovation Park.