Thousands take on summer challenge

Some 2,550 high school students benefited from the Annual Summer Challenge Programme organised by the Abu Dhabi Education Council (Adec) and Abu Dhabi University Knowledge Group (ADUKG). The four-week programme aimed at providing the students with an interactive learning experience to improve their knowledge in English, IT and entrepreneurship. Adec set guidelines for students from both public and private schools to join the summer challenge programme. "Students have to be high achievers, committed and demonstrate a positive attitude and eagerness to learn. Their school should nominate them," said Dr Ahmad Badr, chief executive officer of ADUKG. "Abu Dhabi University was then responsible for designing an academic and practical programme to equip students with various needed skills," he added. Article continues below Improvements Some 1,515 students improved their English language skills in writing, speaking and listening, while 901 students followed the International Computer Driving Licence (ICDL) training course and developed their computer skills. In their Entrepreneurship training 134 students submitted projects in line with the Abu Dhabi Economic Vision 2030. "In order to provide quality education across the Emirates, young students need to be equipped with the right skills and qualifications to set them on their successful career paths," said Dr Nabeel Ebrahim, Chancellor of Abu Dhabi University (ADU). "The programme raised the performance of participating students in the English language, as well as encouraging their interest in IT and entrepreneurship," he added.