The Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Knowledge Foundation (MBRF) invited a number of distinguished Emirati students to attend the annual Nobel Prize Award Ceremony 2018 in Stockholm, Sweden last week.
The initiative follows directives from MBRF Chairman His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and is in line with the Foundation’s partnership with the International Nobel Foundation, and its commitment to promoting innovation and creativity across all knowledge sectors.
Attended by His Highness Carl XVI Gustaf, King of Sweden, and a host of prominent academics, scientists and previous Nobel laureates, this year’s ceremony marks the first time students from the Arab world were nominated to attend. The Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Knowledge Foundation approached various universities and colleges across the UAE to select outstanding students to attend the event.
The final list consisted of two students from United Arab Emirates University, one from Zayed University, and one from Khalifa University, and the students were greeted by H.E. Sultan Al Kaitoob, UAE Ambassador to Sweden, as well as MBRF’s CEO H.E. Jamal bin Huwaireb.
“Bringing Emirati students to attend an international event as prestigious as Nobel Week reflects MBRF’s mandate and leading role in the production and dissemination of knowledge, as well as the promotion of innovation and creativity in Arab societies,” asserted H.E. bin Huwaireb. “It provides the youth with an opportunity to explore best practices and inspiring success stories, and to develop their ideas and work hard to one day win the Nobel Prize. Four students were nominated by their universities based on their outstanding performance and capabilities unparalleled among their peers.”
The students expressed their happiness to be on the trip. “Nobel Week is one of the most prominent international events, bringing together high-profile leaders, academics and scientists who are a source of inspiration for students and young people. We can learn from their experience, follow their example and work hard for the good of the country,” said Salma Al-Dhanhani, a student at the United Arab Emirates University.
The Nobel Prize is the most prestigious of its kind, awarded by Swedish and Norwegian institutions to honour academics and thinkers and recognise their contributions to scientific advancements in physics, chemistry, medicine, literature, economics, and peace.
The Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Knowledge Foundation signed a five-year agreement with the International Nobel Foundation to organise the annual Nobel Museum in Dubai. The Foundation has so far organised four editions of the event, shedding light on various categories covered by the Prize, as well as innovations by Nobel Prize laureates. The event draws attention and participation from all segments of the community.
