Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan met with the first 45 Emirati talents selected for the Advanced Technology Research Council’s (ATRC) ‘NexTech’ program. The NexTech program aims to develop Emirati talent in research and technology, aligning with Abu Dhabi's investment in knowledge development. ATRC will empower UAE national talent via outreach, talent scouting, and directing talent to TII research projects. Why it matters: This program signifies a strategic push towards building national competencies in advanced technology and accelerating the UAE's transition to a knowledge-based economy.
The National Technology Development Program (NTDP) and KAUST hosted 20 Saudi startups at the 'NextEra' startup bootcamp, focusing on launching deep tech products. These startups specialize in fields like Generative AI, SpaceTech, and Green Tech. The KAUST-NTDP partnership aims to advance Saudi Arabia’s economic transformation goals by cultivating impactful startups. Why it matters: This initiative supports the growth of Saudi Arabia's deep tech sector, fostering innovation and aligning with the Kingdom's broader economic transformation objectives.
Three researchers from the UAE's Advanced Materials Research Center (AMRC) are pursuing advanced degrees at the University of Manchester through the Advanced Technology Research Council’s NexTech program. Shamma Alhashmi is pursuing a PhD in chemical engineering, while Mohamed Alnuaimi and Omar BaNabila are working towards master's degrees in Advanced Engineering Materials. Their research focuses on nanomaterials, piezoelectrics, and material damage analysis, respectively. Why it matters: This initiative demonstrates the UAE's investment in STEM education and aims to enhance domestic research capabilities in advanced materials by providing international training opportunities for promising Emirati researchers.
The third cohort of the NextEra startup bootcamp at KAUST has concluded, featuring 16 Saudi deep tech startups. The bootcamp, a collaboration between KAUST and the National Technology Development Program (NTDP), focuses on transforming industries aligned with Saudi Arabia's national R&D priorities. Participating startups span sectors like EdTech (Bites), cybersecurity (Nua), and healthcare (Haven Scientific, HistoApp, Labayh). Why it matters: The NextEra program is fostering a local deep tech ecosystem, driving innovation and investment in areas critical to the Kingdom's Vision 2030 goals.