Innovating the Future and Sustaining it
Blog by Sahiba Sadana
Sheikh Saif bin Zayed, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, experiencing Google Expeditions at Google Innovation Hub Inauguration at UAE University (photo courtesy: WAM - Emirates News Agency)
About a century and more ago, a young man named George invented a device that captured the world, quite literally, in its awe. Kodak introduced photography to ordinary people in 1988. At its pinnacle time, about 70 percent of the American film market was locked up for Kodak. In 2012, the company declared its bankruptcy. Despite its history of multiple innovations and a jaw-dropping advertising strategy with the acclaimed tagline, ‘You press the button – we do the rest’, the fate of Kodak reinstates faith in 'Recurring Innovation'.
Innovation manifests human development
The UAE Innovation Month is brimming with agility and kicked off on February 1st. The Emirates had a time filled with developmental activities, networking and audience engagement initiatives that highlight UAE's commitment to enhance innovation. Under the empowering slogan of “Innovation Starts with You", the government promotes a culture of innovation, providing a platform for nationwide demonstration of skills.
On the special edition of UAE Innovation Month, Dr. Sana Farid, a Virtual Reality strategist and also Middle East Women of Wearables Ambassador, received an overwhelming feedback at the Google Innovation Hub located in the UAE University.
Google Innovation Hub is a dynamic step to achieve an agenda enhancing the importance of digital creativity. The fair and innovative program inspires the youth to transmute their tech obsessions into successful businesses. The first of its kind center in the Middle East, the Hub can host up to 120 students daily to impart skills in 3D printing, laser cutting, machine learning, app development, robotics, etc.
The Deputy Prime Minister and the Minister of Interior, H.E. Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan graced the launch event of the Innovation Hub, powered by Google. He was escorted by other Government ministers and representatives of Google. Dr. Sana Farid, who was demonstrating the many uses of Virtual Reality in Education, was paid a visit by the Minister of Interior H.E. Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan who seemed deeply immersed in exploring Virtual Reality.
Sheikh Saif bin Zayed, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, inaugurates the Innovation Hub at UAE University (video courtesy: WAM - Emirates News Agency)
Throughout the event, His Excellency was seen fondly enjoying the developments showcased, especially enjoying the company of young kids present at the Innovation Hub. The forward-thinking leadership of the country instills confidence and integrity in aspiring innovators.
Dr. Sana Farid, who is an EdTech influencer and a progressive figure in the region's tech space shared her thoughts on the occasion of UAE Innovation Month and emphasized the role of innovation and the never-ending need to evolve. She said: "When government and citizens join hands, catching the bus to an innovation-led future is easy. We must acknowledge the changes occurring around us and adapt for a sustainable tomorrow. A successful transition with time will take us ahead and keep us going."
With programs like these, countries can aim to achieve their long-term vision by focussing on the skills of their citizens. Presence of this hub in the region is a progressive sign and an indication that there's no stopping to high-tech development in the Middle East.
Sahiba Sadana is a leading content editor specialized in academic writing and content marketing. As a lover of brevity, she’s driven to initiate progressive changes in ed-tech through her writings. A former academic counselor, Sahiba is a strong supporter of innovative technologies like Virtual Reality & Augmented Reality as notable tools to improve pedagogy and foster an inclusive environment. Also, a Sherlock Holmes fangirl and a serial chips eater. Follow her on LinkedIn.