Photo: GITEX.

Satellite operator Yahsat is sponsoring the Gulf Information Technology Exhibition (GITEX) Student Lab Competition, an initiative by the GITEX Technology Week to recognize and promote innovation and creativity among students in the fields of communications technology, engineering, science and computing.

The competition gives the opportunity to current students and graduates to present solutions such as software, gaming, applications and product innovations to shape our everyday lives. Through the sponsorship, Yahsat aims to encourage youth to invest in building the STEM skills needed to make a positive impact on their careers and on society.

This year, dozens of high-quality applications came in from across the world, including the United Arab Emirates (UAE), United States, Germany and India. Out of 65 submissions, a total of 24 projects have been shortlisted by a committee comprising industry leaders, associations and partners. The shortlisted students will have the opportunity to present their projects to technology leaders and professionals at the Student Lab showcase area during the GITEX Technology Week.

On top of a cash prize, the winner of the 2017 edition will be invited by Yahsat to attend the launch of its third satellite, Al Yah 3, in Kourou, French Guiana.

In the spirit of providing opportunities for further growth, all participants will also be offered the possibility to do an internship at Yahsat to develop their skills and shadow experienced engineers and Information and Communications Technology (ICT) professionals.

The sponsorship of the Student Lab comes on the heels of other initiatives taken by Yahsat to nurture talented youth, such as the launch earlier this year of the Yahsat Space Laboratory, a facility that is dedicated to advanced research, at the Masdar Institute.