High-Profile Speakers from Government, Academia and Industry Sectors to Emphasize Importance of Embracing Research Culture

Abu Dhabi-UAE: 14 February, 2012 – The UAE University Leadership Council (ULC), a platform for academic leaderships to share creative ideas, foster common interests and spearhead new initiatives for innovation and technology transfer in the region, today announced the one-day forum on research and innovation (R&I) will open in Abu Dhabi on 15 February.

Organized under the patronage of His Excellency Sheikh Nahayan bin Mabarak Al Nahayan, UAE Minister for Higher Education and Scientific Research, the forum titled ‘Bridging the Knowledge Economy’ will be held at the Zayed University campus in Abu Dhabi. High-profile keynote speakers and panelists from the academia, government and industry sectorswill emphasize the importance of embracing a culture of research and discuss ways to spur R&D investment, facilitate R&I capacity building and further strengthen entrepreneurship development.

The keynote address will be delivered by His Excellency Sheikh Nahayan bin Mabarak. Dr Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, CEO of Masdar and Chairman of the Executive Committee of the Board of Trustees of Masdar Institute, will offer the concluding remarks. Dr Lamya Fawwaz, Executive Director, Public Affairs, Masdar Institute, will welcome the gathering.

The three sessions at the forum include the Academic Panel that will focus on ‘Development of a robust R&I and human capital development’ and the Industry Panel that will highlight ‘Innovation as a means to enhance global competitiveness’. The Government Panel will emphasize the role of ‘Policies, regulations and organizations to promote innovation’.

Dr. Fred Moavenzadeh, President of Masdar Institute of Science and Technology, will moderate the panel on academia. In addition to Nabil Ibrahim, Chancellor of Abu Dhabi University, other panelists include the ULC Executive Council members Dr. Peter Heath, Chancellor of American University of Sharjah (AUS), Dr. Tod Laursen, President of Khalifa University, Dr. Rory Hume, Provost of the United Arab Emirates University (UAEU), and Dr. Larry Wilson, Provost of Zayed University (ZU).

Other experts from industry and government will focus on the role of their respective sectors. Dr. Dr. Rafic Makki, Executive Director, Office of Planning & Strategic Affairs,Abu Dhabi Education Council (ADEC), will be the moderator ofthe Government Panel. The panelists including Ghaniya S. Bin-Dhaaer Al-Yafei, Petroleum Reservoirs Engineer, Abu Dhabi Company for Onshore Oil Operations (ADCO), Dr. Richard Perry, Executive Director of Environmental Information, Science & Outreach Management, Environment Agency Abu Dhabi(EAD), Dr Mohammed Baka, Technology Advisor, Abu Dhabi Water and Electricity Authority, and Noura Ibrahim Al Marri, Special Education Department Director, UAE Ministry of Education, will highlight the policies, regulations and organizations that will help promote innovation.

To be moderated by Dr. Eesa Bastaki,CEO of ICT Fund, the panel on industry will have experts including Yousef Al Bastaki Vice-President of Projects, Emirates Aluminum (EMAL), Sultan Al Haji, Vice-President – Institutional Development,Total UAE, Osman Ahmed, Head of the Centre of Excellence for Smart Buildings at Siemens, and Suhail Mahmood Al Ansari, Executive Director of the Mubadala Healthcare.

The UAE University Leadership Council’s‘ Bridging the Knowledge Economy’ forum is the first in a series of initiatives and events being developed to advance research and innovation and promote the economic development in the UAE. The speakers at the event will also aim to identify potential investment opportunities through collaboration and long-term partnerships among the three sectors.

Acting as a link for faculty and students to interface with both the public and private sectors, the University Leadership Council aims to seek industrial, government, and private individual financial support for the academic and research activities of the universities. It is also mandated to advance the educational goals of the UAE-based universities and align their policies with the government with regard to meeting the requirements of the economy and the industry.

Accreditation Received after Extensive Assessment by External Review Team

Abu Dhabi-UAE: 13 February, 2012 – Masdar Institute of Science and Technology, an independent, research-driven graduate-level university focused on advanced energy and sustainable technologies, today announced the Commission for Academic Accreditation (CAA) at the UAE Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research has granted accreditation to its post-graduate Chemical Engineering Program.

The three-member External Review Team (ERT) completed an extensive assessment of the Chemical Engineering Program in September 2011. The delegation was present at the campus from 18-21 September and met with the faculty and professional staff in the affiliated Chemical Engineering Program, in addition to visiting classrooms, library and research laboratories. The delegation was received by Prof. Youssef Shatilla, Associate Dean for Graduate Education and the Chemical Engineering Faculty at Masdar Institute.

The review covered Masdar Institute’s governance, policies and procedures, quality assurance measures, education program, fiscal resources and community engagement.

The CAA assessment utilizes standards-based quality assurance processes to evaluate educational quality and offer an assurance to the community that licensed academic institutions and their accredited programs truly meet internationally recognized benchmarks.

Prof. Youssef Shatilla said: “Accreditation plays an important role in the recognition of academic programs by prospective students, their families and the community. The accreditation for the Chemical Engineering Program by the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research reflects the confirmation that Masdar Institute’s academic excellence is on par with international standards. We are delighted to receive this accreditation for our program that is backed by competent faculty and other academic and financial resources. We thank the external team and the higher authorities for their confidence in the academic infrastructure at Masdar Institute.”

Masdar Institute has already received Initial accreditation for seven of its Master’s programs including Computing and Information Science; Electrical Power Engineering; Engineering Systems and Management; Materials Science and Engineering; Mechanical Engineering; Microsystems Engineering, as well as Water and Environmental Engineering. The team at Masdar Institute is working on the accreditation of the Interdisciplinary PhD program.

The academic programs at Masdar Institute are based on the US graduate educational model that integrates courses and seminars with multi-disciplinary research. The structure of the academic programs does not follow the traditional colleges and departments model and is designed to encourage students and faculty to study and research across program boundaries. This is important to enable researchers to tackle complex problems in energy and sustainability that cannot be confined to single disciplines.

Event to Highlight Requirements for Developing Culture of Research and Innovation through Linking Industry, Government and Academia

Abu Dhabi-UAE: 11 February, 2012 – His Excellency Sheikh Nahayan bin Mabarak Al Nahayan, UAE Minister for Higher Education and Scientific Research, will address a forum on innovation in Abu Dhabi.

Organized under the patronage of His Excellency Sheikh Nahayan bin Mabarak by the University Leadership Council, a group of top academic institutions that seeks to facilitate the creation of an intensive knowledge-based economy in the UAE, the forum titled ‘Innovation: the bridge to a knowledge-based economy’, will be held on 15 February at the Zayed University campus in Abu Dhabi. It will aim to highlight the requirements for further developing the research culture in the country.

His Excellency Sheikh Nahayan bin Mabarak will present the opening keynote, while the government panel will focus on policies, regulations and organizations to promote innovation. The academic panel will focus on development of human capital and R&I capacity, while the panel on industry will emphasize innovation as a means to enhance global competitiveness. Dr Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, CEO of Masdar and Chairman of the Executive Committee of the Board of Trustees of Masdar Institute, will offer the concluding remarks. Dr Lamya Fawwaz, Executive Director, Public Affairs, Masdar Institute, will give the welcome remarks.

High-profile speakers and eminent experts will participate in three panel discussions dedicated to academia, government and industry. In addition to Nabil Ibrahim, Chancellor of Abu Dhabi University, other panelists on academia will include the ULC Executive Council members such as Dr. Tod Laursen, President of Khalifa University, Dr. Larry Wilson, Provost of Zayed University (ZU), Dr. Peter Heath, Chancellor of American University of Sharjah (AUS), and Dr. Rory Hume, Provost of the United Arab Emirates University (UAEU). Dr. Fred Moavenzadeh, President of Masdar Institute of Science and Technology, will moderate the session.

They will share views and discuss ways to spur R&I investment, facilitate R&I capacity building and further strengthen entrepreneurship development.

Mughair Al Khaili, Director-General of Abu Dhabi Education Council, will be a panelist on the government panel. The panel on industry will be moderated by Dr. Eesa Bastaki, CEO of ICT Fund, and the panelists include Yousef Al Bastaki Vice-President of Projects, Emirates Aluminum (EMAL), Dr. Nawal Al Hosani Director of ZFEP and Sustainability, and Sultan Al Haji, Vice President – Institutional Development, Total UAE.

These experts will seek to highlight the necessary measures required to expedite the establishment of a dynamic research-based science and technology infrastructure that will lead to innovation to further spur economic progress.

The forum is the first in a series of initiatives and events being developed to advance research and innovation and promote the economic development in the UAE. It will bring together research universities, government agencies and private sector companies to identify potential investment opportunities through collaboration and long-term partnerships.

Dr. Tod Laursen said: “As an institution dedicated to the advancement of learning through teaching and research as well as to the discovery and application of knowledge, Khalifa University attaches significant importance to innovation. We are delighted to jointly host this forum with our University Leadership Council partners and we believe the event will provide us rich insights into identifying measures that will help spread the research culture in the UAE and the region.”

Dr. Larry Wilson said: “Zayed University is an educational centre of excellence that aims to create leaders with capabilities to ensure the future progress of the country. This process requires spreading awareness among today’s youth on the need to remain innovative if this objective is to be achieved. We are confident this forum organized by the University Leadership Council will create the right environment to emphasize this facet of learning that will bring overall benefit to the wider community.”

Dr. Peter Heath said: “Being a center of research for solving the problems faced by society is one of the defining values of the American University of Sharjah. As a reputed higher education institution, we are privileged to offer our support to the University Leadership Council’s forum on innovation, which we feel will help the youth chart the right course through research.”

Dr. Rory Hume said: “In our objective to become an internationally distinguished comprehensive research university, the United Arab Emirates University places innovation as one of the top priorities. A strong research culture can greatly facilitate economic and social progress and we are glad to partner with other University Leadership Council members in hosting this forum on innovation.”

Dr. Fred Moavenzadeh said: “Encouraging and supporting university-industry-government partnerships is one of the main objectives of the University Leadership Council. As an organization for higher education institutions, the Council remains committed to facilitating partnerships that will pave way for the R&D infrastructure to gain momentum. We believe the forum will adequately elicit opinions that will help chalk out programs for universities to play a key role in strengthening R&D to develop a knowledge-based society in the UAE and the region.”

Acting as a link for faculty and students to interface with both the public and private sectors, the University Leadership Council aims to seek industrial, government, and private individual financial support for the academic and research activities of the universities. It is also mandated to advance the educational goals of the UAE-based universities and align their policies with the government with regard to meeting the requirements of the economy and industry.

 Abu Dhabi-UAE: 26  January, 2012 – Masdar Institute of Science of Technology, an independent, research-driven graduate-level university focused on advanced energy and sustainable technologies, today announced members of its outreach initiative the Young Future Energy Leaders (YFEL) program successfully marked their participation at the World Future Energy Summit (WFES) 2012, showcasing six innovative project concepts.

A key element of WFES, the YFEL program that aims to develop tomorrow’s leaders in the fields of advanced energy and sustainability, also provided opportunities for members to share their insights with their peers as well as industry, government and academic leaders.

Over 150 YFEL members, representing students from UAE universities, international universities, as well as young professionals from local companies attended specialized forums, seminars, debates and panels at WFES 2012. They also discussed potential projects that can be implemented during the year.

Tasked with visiting various company stalls, YFEL members explored the Project Village at WFES 2012 to understand the concept behind the new products and identify innovative technologies. The Project Village hosted select projects in renewable energy and energy efficiency from the Middle East, India and Africa, as well as other markets. The  Innovate@WFES zone, an original incubator concept dedicated to small and medium-sized businesses working across the future energy value chain, offered an opportunity for the YFEL members to interact with different exhibitors in renewable energy and emerging technologies.

Some of the projects displayed at the YFEL stand during WFES 2012 included ‘Prediction of global solar radiation in Abu Dhabi city’ by Maitha Al Shamsi, ‘Enzymatic production of biodiesel from fats extracted from lamb meat using supercritical Co2’ by Hanifa Easa  Ebrahim M. Taher, ‘Study and optimize the drag impact on moving vehicles’ by a group including Talal Ahmed Balalaa, Esmaeel Saif, Mahmoud Niaz, and Abdullah Al Bastaki; ‘Production of biodiesel from microalgae’ jointly by Khadeeja Mohammed Al-Hosani, Sheikha Abdullah Al-Hanaei, Sheikha Ali Al-Hamed and Qatralnada Yusuf Mohammed; ‘Solar-powered wheel chair’ by Mohammed Abdulwahab; as well as ‘Photovoltaic Traffic Light System’  jointly by Khalil Abdul Hamid Alhosani, Ahmed Sadiq Abdulwahed, Mohamed Jasim Al Ali and Humaid Saeed Al Harthi.

Polar explorer Sir Robert Swan offered a presentation on his earlier visits to Antarctica, motivating the younger generation to remain committed to preserving the environment. He also introduced Reem Al Junaibi and Maitha Al Kaabi, the two Masdar Institute students who will be part of the International Antarctica Expedition (IAE) 2012 team that is scheduled to begin the voyage on 27 February from Argentina’s Ushuaia city.

Members also participated in the Zayed Future Energy Prize Award Ceremony and Gala Dinner at the Emirates Palace Hotel and attended the YFEL graduation ceremony that was held at the Masdar Institute campus. A total of 40 members received their certificates from Dr Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, Chief Executive Officer of Masdar, and Chairman of the Executive Committee of the Board of Trustees of Masdar Institute, and Dr Fred Moavenzadeh, President, Masdar Institute.

Some of the events at the YFEL stand included a presentation by Mohamed El-Ashry, Chairman, Renewable Energy Policy Network for the 21st Century (REN 21), and Senior Fellow, UN Foundation; and a debate on ‘Should countries implement actions that address population issues impacting world-wide sustainability?’ moderated by Dr. Kenneth Volk, Head of Outreach Program, Masdar Institute.

A panel discussion on ‘Women leading the way in clean energy and climate change’, organized by the Directorate of Energy and Climate (DECC) in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA), in collaboration with Women Enriching Business (WEB) and YFEL, was also attended by several YFEL members. In addition, Morten Albaek, Senior Vice-President, Group Marketing and Customer Insight, from the Danish wind energy firm Vestas, elaborated on future energy visionaries and innovations.

His Excellency Alex Salmond, First Minister of Scotland, and His Excellency Sultan bin Rashed Al Dhaheri, Member of the UAE Federal National Council, who earlier contributed one million US dollars to the Masdar Institute outreach program, visited the YFEL stand. They were received by Masdar Institute and YFEL officials, including Dr Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, Dr Fred Moavenzadeh, Dr Lamya Fawwaz, Executive Director of Public Affairs, and Zainab Al Ali, Senior Outreach Officer and YFEL Program Coordinator.

Some of the presentations at the YFEL stand included ‘How to launch a disruptive start-up in the energy sector’ by YFEL 2011 members Haljmar Nilsonne and Rasmus Davidson; ‘Direct production of hydrogen in sulfur recovery process of sour gases’ by Iman Ustadi; and ‘The role of organic photovoltaics for a sustainable future’ by Michael Hartel.

Maitha Al Shamsi focused her presentation on ‘Prediction of global solar radiation in UAE using artificial neural networks’, while Asad H. Sahir’s offered ‘A brief overview of the research activities by the Chemical Looping Combustion Group at the University of Utah’.

‘CanSat Competition’ was the title of a presentation given by Sarah Saeed Bawazir, while the presentation on ‘A wireless sensor network-based heliostat system using real-time image processing techniques’ was jointly conducted by Hessa Al-Shehhi, Maha Younis, Mahmoud Meribout, and Nada Al-Hamar.

Dr. Steve Griffiths, Executive Director of Institute Initiatives, moderated a session titled ‘Should tariffs be imposed on solar panels imported to the US from China?’, while Aiden Dwyer, Young Naturalist Award Winner – Museum of Natural History, New York, spoke on ‘The Fibonacci Sequence in Trees’.

Panel discussions at the YFEL stand focused on ‘Technology leaders in Future Energy- insights form innovators’, ‘Energy Storage – Technical challenges: Market opportunities’, and ‘Finance Leaders in Future Energy – Insights from the Financiers’.

For the YFEL members, the participation in WFES 2012 proved productive as they could engage with global leaders in the renewable energy industry, government and the non-government organizations.

Part of the Masdar Institute’s Outreach program, YFEL offers young professionals and students from the UAE and abroad an opportunity to become more engaged in finding solutions to the world’s biggest challenges – achieving energy efficiency and tackling climate change. It also aims to bring young professionals closer to government representatives, business leaders and other organizations active in the area of alternative energy and sustainability.

Masdar Institute Lab Also Selected by NASA as One of Seven Global Pre-launch Test Sites for New Earth Observation Satellite SMAP

Abu Dhabi-UAE:8  February , 2012 – Masdar Institute of Science and Technology, an independent, research-driven graduate-level university focused on advanced energy and sustainable technologies, today announced its Earth Observation and Environmental Remote Sensing (EO-ERS) laboratory has produced an animated clipping on the evolution and the urban expansion of Abu Dhabi City over the past 25 years.

Accessible on http://youtu.be/8gErC_tRAiY, the animation marks one of the projects by EO-ERS at Masdar Institute to capture various stages of the growth of the emirate. The satellite data used for this animation was provided by NASA and the US Geological Survey Department (USGS).

The EO-ERS laboratory at Masdar Institute is currently involved in several research projects focusing on developing new satellite-based tools to forecast, detect and monitor different environmental hazards in the UAE and the GCC region. Its research activities include coastal water quality monitoring from space; solar and wind potential mapping; real time dust detection; land cover monitoring; and thermal mapping of urban areas.

The EO-ERS lab is directed by Dr. Hosni Ghedira and presently includes a team of 3 postdoctoral researchers, one IT engineer and seven research assistants. Dr. Ghedira is also an Associate Professor of Water and Environmental Engineering at Masdar Institute. Before moving to the UAE, Dr. Ghedira spent six years at the City University of New York as an Assistant Professor and Research Associate Professor. He also acted as director of the Environmental Remote Sensing and Image Processing Laboratory at the NOAA Cooperative Remote Sensing Science & Technology Center in New York for more than four years.

The EO-ERS lab at Masdar Institute has been recently selected by NASA as one of seven global pre-launch test sites for a new Earth observation satellite SMAP, which is scheduled to be launched by NASA in 2014 (smap.jpl.nasa.gov). In collaboration with NASA, EO-ERS will jointly run a four-year pilot study on airborne dust estimation for this new satellite mission. The lab has its own satellite receiving station that receives real time satellite data from NASA and European Space Agency satellites as well as state-of-the-art software packages for satellite data processing and analysis.

Established in collaboration with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Masdar Institute integrates theory and practice to incubate a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship, working to develop the critical thinkers and leaders of tomorrow.  With its world-class faculty and top-tier students, the Institute is committed to finding solutions to the challenges of clean energy and climate change. 

Key Highlights Include Scholarship Program, Research Partnership and Announcement on Two Students’ Antarctica Expedition with IAE 2012 Team

Abu Dhabi-UAE: 23 January, 2012 – Masdar Institute of Science and Technology, an independent, research-driven graduate-level university focused on advanced energy and sustainable technologies, today announced knowledge exchange on clean energy and sustainability as well as new academic and research initiatives marked its participation in the just concluded World Future Energy Summit (WFES) 2012.

The special initiatives include a scholarship program with Toyota Motor Corporation, the world’s leading automotive manufacturer, and the inclusion of two Masdar Institute students on Sir Robert Swan’s International Antarctic Expedition (IAE) 2012 team. Additionally, a master research partnership agreement with Masdar PV GmbH, leading German-based manufacturer of photovoltaic films, was also announced at WFES 2012.

At the same time, Dr. Fred Moavenzadeh, President of Masdar Institute, and various officials and faculty members marked their participation with driving discussions at workshops and seminars throughout the four-day event in Abu Dhabi. They included Dr Steve Griffiths, Executive Director, Institute Initiatives, and Dr Toufic Mezher, Professor in Engineering System and Management, Dr. Mahieddine Emziane, Associate Professor, and Prof Adel Gougam, Assistant Professor – Material Science & Engineering.

One of the highlights of Masdar Institute’s participation is the Masdar Institute-Toyota Scholarship Program that is expected to help 10 students to conduct research on the advancement of low-carbon emission vehicle technologies. One student will be selected for each academic year and the scholarships will be offered to highly-qualified graduate students from around the world to work on projects in the area of technologies for sustainable development.

Each student will spend two weeks at Toyota Motor Corporation and other sites in Japan, learning about the company’s efforts to develop cutting-edge low emission vehicle technologies and also Japanese industries’ efforts towards simultaneously realizing economic growth and environmental preservation.

Another key highlight was the announcement on the inclusion of two students from Masdar Institute – Maitha Al Kaabi and Reem Al Junaibi – on the IAE 2012 team led by Sir Robert Swan, the first person in history to walk both the North and South Poles.

During their 16-day voyage to the icy continent, the students will participate in the ‘2041 E-Base Goes Live’ mission, by utilizing the knowledge they gained at Masdar Institute. The E-Base is a sustainable green building operated in an environmental and resource-efficient manner and the place where the expedition team will rely solely on renewable energy – solar, wind or thermal power. The two students will also participate in team workshops as well as a selection of multimedia lectures covering the wildlife, geology, history and geography of the Antarctica Peninsula.

Speaking at a workshop titled ‘Building a robust R&D infrastructure in Abu Dhabi’, Dr. Fred Moavenzadeh lauded the UAE for adopting a holistic and multidimensional approach. He pointed out that through capital formation and market creation for the development of a robust R&D infrastructure, the UAE has taken the right step to diversify the economy and move towards a knowledge-based society.

Reiterating its role in furthering sustainable technologies through partnerships, Masdar Institute hosted a workshop in collaboration with First Solar, Inc., a leader in photovoltaic (PV) solar modules and a premier provider of comprehensive PV solar systems. Titled ‘Solar PV: Striving for Grid Parity – the Importance of R&D in a fast evolving industry’, the event helped to highlight the vital role of R&D in the fast evolving solar power industry.

Participating in the session titled ‘Innovation and Technology: The use of Renewable Energy Scenarios for Decision’ Dr Toufic Mezher, emphasized the need to develop a common ontology for the renewable energy sector and develop knowledge mapping for all the existing information. He pointed out that such measures would be essential for creating, capturing, and delivering knowledge in renewable energy.

Showcasing its role as an academic institution that aims to further knowledge development, Masdar Institute hosted a careers event titled ‘Human Capital Needs of the Renewable and Advanced Energy Industry: Where do Opportunities Exist?’. The event included a panel presentation and a networking reception for the participants.

Among the round-table discussions, Dr. Mahieddine Emziane spoke on ‘Solar Energy for the Built Environment in GCC: Challenges & Opportunities’, while Prof Adel Gougam shared his expertise on ‘Photovoltaic Technologies for UAE and GCC – Is Si-Based Technology Viable? Technology Perspective’.

Masdar Institute faculty and students also led presentations on various advanced energy and sustainable technologies. They included a session on ‘Masdar Institute’s Role in Shaping the Future Energy Landscape’ by Dr Steve Griffiths and another session on ‘Electron Microscopes at Masdar Institute’ by Dr. Amal Al Ghaferi.

Other presentations included ‘Communication Assisted Electrical Microgrids and Smart grids adapted to highly Distributed Renewable Energy Sources’ by Iraklis Nikolakakos, a Masdar Institute PhD student, and ‘Design and Implementation of a Single Phase Grid-Interactive Module Integrated Converter with Maximum Power Point Tracking’ by Fonkwe Fongang Edwin, Electrical Power Engineering – Research Assistant at Masdar Institute.

Established in collaboration with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Masdar Institute integrates theory and practice to incubate a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship, working to develop the critical thinkers and leaders of tomorrow.  With its world-class faculty and top-tier students, the Institute is committed to finding solutions to the challenges of clean energy and climate change.

Certificates Awarded to YFEL Members for Successful Completion of Year-long Program

Abu Dhabi-UAE: 19 January, 2012 – Masdar Institute of Science and Technology, an independent, research-driven graduate-level university focused on advanced energy and sustainable technologies, honored members of the Young Future Energy Leaders program for successful completion of the year-long events in 2011.

A total of 40 members received their certificates at a ceremony that was held at Masdar Institute.
Top management of Masdar and Masdar Institute including Dr Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, Chief Executive Officer of Masdar, and Chairman of the Executive Committee of the Board of Trustees of Masdar Institute, Dr Fred Moavenzadeh, President, Masdar Institute of Science and Technology, Hamza Kazim, Vice-President for Operations and Finance, Dr Lamya Fawwaz, Executive Director of Public Affairs, Zainab Al Ali, Senior Outreach Officer and YFEL Program Co-ordinator, and other officials were also present at the award ceremony.

Following a video presentation that highlighted the accomplishments of the YFEL 2011 program, certificates were awarded to the members by Dr Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, and Dr Fred Moavenzadeh. The event was also an opportunity for new YFEL members to interact with the senior members and learn about the annual schedule that helped them become more effective professionals and individuals. For the new YFEL members, the event marked the beginning of their year-long program that will help them develop into productive energy industry leaders of the future.

During 2011, the YFEL program expanded into a year-long schedule of educational courses, activities, and events. The calendar of events during the year became more engaging with the inclusion of moderated debates, participation in global forums, guided tours, an YFEL stakeholder luncheon, a dinner gathering, high-profile presentations from global leaders and students’ presentations on work and research in the areas of advanced energy and sustainability.

In addition, select YFEL members who were chosen based on research projects showcased at WFES 2011 were provided an opportunity to be part of a two-week MIT Practical experience course. A case study competition also selected 14 winners for attending the European Future Energy Forum (EFEF 2011) in Geneva. During their stay, YFEL members visited the Solar Impulse hangar on the outskirts of Geneva and were briefed on the various key features of the world’s first-ever solar-powered plane.
The 2011 YFEL program included 60 UAE National students from key universities as well as 20 young professionals from various organizations.

The year also witnessed the first-ever individual financial contribution from Emirati philanthropist Mohammed Salem Bin Kardous Al-Ameri, who donated AED1 million for the YFEL 2011 program. The Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) and the Emirates Nuclear Energy Corporation (ENEC) were the platinum sponsors of YFEL during 2011, while Abu Dhabi Water & Electricity Authority (ADWEA) and Dolphin Energy were the gold sponsors.

Dr Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber said: “The completion of the annual YFEL program marks the contribution of the Masdar initiative and Masdar Institute towards fulfilling Abu Dhabi’s aim to create a knowledge-based economy. The program is also aligned with the objectives of the country’s leadership in empowering youth through various measures. The graduating YFEL members will have to become key players in the energy industry of the future and we are confident their talents will transform Abu Dhabi into a hub for renewable energy and sustainability. We thank the UAE’s leadership for their continuous support and guidance that is helping us to develop the youth.”

Dr Fred Moavenzadeh said: “For the YFEL members who receive their certificates, this does not mean conclusion of the learning process. Equipped with the required skills to be tomorrow’s leaders in the energy industry, YFEL members now have to remain in the forefront and prove their value to the community through continuously acquiring new skills in their workplace or universities. We thank the country’s leadership for their support in helping us achieve our objectives, especially with the community outreach programs.”

Dr Lamya Fawwaz, Executive Director of Public Affairs, said: “YFEL plays a significant role in nurturing students and young professionals and developing them into tomorrow’s leaders in energy industry. Today’s ceremony is a testimony to Masdar Institute’s commitment towards the community’s overall development. We are confident the graduating YFEL members will add significant value to the society with their newly acquired knowledge. At the same time, we thank the UAE’s wise leadership for their continuous support and vision in educating our youth for the future.”

Iman Ustadi, YFEL member and a student of the American University of Sharjah, said: “Participation in the YFEL program has enhanced my professional skills and increased my confidence to take up higher responsibilities in the future. The program profile at YFEL is so richly diversified that it assists in the overall growth of students like me. I am so proud to have completed the year-long program and I thank my fellow YFEL members and Masdar Institute officials for organizing such a highly useful outreach initiative.”

An outreach program by Masdar Institute, YFEL aims to develop tomorrow’s leaders in the fields of advanced energy and sustainability with various initiatives that educate, inspire and empower students and young professionals to become future leaders capable of tackling the world’s most pressing challenges.

YFEL is a dynamic forum that encourages highly qualified and talented students and young professionals to remain proactive during debates and global discussions in advanced energy and sustainability. In addition, it organizes short courses, workshops and seminars, while providing networking opportunities and visibility through high-level events and meetings, while recognizing members’ contributions and accomplishments.

The YFEL program also helps to bring young professionals closer to government representatives, business leaders and other organizations active in the area of alternative energy and sustainability. 

16-Day Expedition Dedicated to Highlight Need for Recycling, Renewable Energy and Sustainability to Combat Effects of Climate Change

–Masdar Institute of Science and Technology, an independent, research-driven graduate-level university focused on advanced energy and sustainable technologies, today announced two of its students will become privileged members of the International Antarctic Expedition (IAE) 2012 team.

The two students from Masdar Institute – Maitha Al Kaabi and Reem Al Junaibi – will join the team that will be led by Sir Robert Swan, the first person in history to walk both the North and South Poles. They will experience Sir Robert’s personal leadership and sustainability program called ‘Leadership on the Edge’. The expedition team will assemble on 27 February, 2012, at Argentina’s Ushuaia, the southern-most city in the world.

The announcement was made at the YFEL stand after Sir Robert’s address to the gathering on Day Two of the World Future Energy Summit (WFES) 2012 that opened on 16 January at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC). The four-day Summit is organized under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces.

Dr Fred Moavenzadeh, President of Masdar Institute, and Dr. Lamya Fawwaz, Executive Director of Public Affairs, were present at the stand. Dr Kenneth Volk, Outreach Manager, Masdar Institute, and Zainab Al Ali, Senior Outreach Officer and YFEL Program Coordinator, Masdar Institute, also attended the event.

Urging the community, especially the young leaders, to take care of the continent, Sir Robert Swan said that Antarctica belongs to everyone in the world and it should be left the same way when the Antarctica Treaty comes up for review in the year 2041. He sought the help of the youth in his mission to save the icy continent from melting as that will prove detrimental to the planet. He concluded his address after introducing the two Masdar Institute students who will be part of his Antarctica expedition in February 2012.

During the expedition, the team will have an opportunity to visit Sir Robert Swan’s 2008 ‘E-Base Goes Live’ mission, where he successfully became the first person in Antarctic history to live for two weeks solely on renewable energy.

The students will participate in the ‘2041 E-Base Goes Live’ mission by utilizing the knowledge they gained at Masdar Institute to help ‘make that mission possible’. This is part of an initiative to encourage students who are engaged in applying the research and knowledge they have acquired to tackle practical situations. The E-Base is a sustainable green building operated in an environmental and resource efficient manner and the place wherethe expedition team will rely solely on renewable energy – solar, wind or thermal power.

Sir Robert is well-known in the UAE for hosting several Emiratis on earlier trips to Antarctica. Through his organization called 2041, Sir Robert has dedicated his life to preserving Antarctica by promoting recycling, renewable energy and sustainability to combat the effects of climate change.

In addition to the IAE’s expertise on the environment, climate change, and sustainable development, the team’s program focuses on personal development, improving communication skills, and team building.

Dr Fred Moavenzadeh said: “The two students from Masdar Institute will embark on this historic expedition that will help them learn the continent’s fragile ecosystem, experience its wildlife and observe the magnificent landscape. But more importantly, under the guidance of Sir Robert, they will learn about climate change and sustainability. We believe the voyage will help them experience life on the icy continent and encourage them to share with others the need to realize the reasons for preserving our precious environment.”

Dr. Lamya Fawwaz said: “Knowledge-enhancing initiatives are the essential part of the Masdar Institute outreach programs and the voyage to Antarctica is part of our endeavor to provide students with an access to Sir Robert Swan’s ‘2041 E-Base Goes Live’ mission. We are confident the two students will be enriched by their experience of sustainable lifestyle on the icy continent, while their research expertise in renewable energy and sustainability they gained at Masdar Institute will effectively guide them through the voyage. We thank the country’s wise leadership for their support to all our initiatives and programs.”

The two Master’s students were selected out of seven applicants, who had to be in excellent physical health, and willing to share their IAE experience with others upon their return. The selection was also based on a 400-word essay that explained their reasons for joining the expedition and its relevance to the student’s ongoing research activities at Masdar Institute.

After joining the expedition team at Argentina’s Ushuaia, there will be two days of team workshops. They will then depart for Antarctica on board Sea Spirit, one of the most spacious and luxurious expedition vessels, on Day 4.

The expedition team will cross the legendary Drake Passage, a milestone in any adventurer’s personal travel history, on Day 5-6. A selection of multimedia lectures about Antarctica will be scheduled during the two days covering the wildlife, geology, history and geography of the Antarctic Peninsula. They will also discuss the importance of renewable energy and its vital role inthe preservation of the icy continent.

From Day 7 to Day 12, the team will be on the Western coast of the Antarctic Peninsula, visiting places including the dome-shaped 250-meter high Cuverville Island, the calving glaciers and statuesque icebergs of Neko Harbor, the whales of Paradise Harbor surrounded by glaciers, and the extremely steep-sided Lemaire Channel. Weather permitting, Sir Robert and the team leaders will then take the group on an overnight camping expedition on the Antarctic ice.

On Day 13, they will visit King George Island, the largest South Shetland Islands of the Peninsula and the location of the 2041 E-Base.
On Day 14 and Day 15, the team will sail back and on board Sea Spirit they will have a program wrap-up. On the 16th day, the team will disembark at Ushuaia and return to their respective destinations.

Sir Robert Swan has devoted himself to work alongside industry and business in education and inspiring young people. He has removed 1,500 tons of rubbish from the Antarctic, has reached out to over 35,000 African youth and taken more than 550 young people, teachers and corporate heads on his Antarctic journeys.

The centerpiece of Masdar City, one of the most sustainable cities in the world, Masdar Institute provides students an unparalleled opportunity in the entire spectrum of research, from theory to applied research to commercialization in a single location. With its best-in-class amenities for research and development in clean technologies, it aims to help drive economic diversification through human capital and technological innovation. 

Dr. Fred Moavenzadeh Participates in Workshop on ‘Building a Robust R&D Infrastructure in Abu Dhabi’ at WFES 2012

Abu Dhabi-UAE: 17 January, 2011 – The UAE has fittingly adopted a holistic and multidimensional approach through capital formation and market creation for the development of a robust R&D infrastructure to diversify the economy and move towards a knowledge-based society, according to Dr. Fred Moavenzadeh, President of Masdar Institute of Science and Technology, an independent, research-driven graduate-level university focused on advanced energy and sustainable technologies.

Dr. Fred Moavenzadeh was speaking at a workshop titled ‘Building a robust R&D infrastructure in Abu Dhabi’ at the World Future Energy Summit (WFES) 2012 that opened on 16 January at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC). The four-day event has gathered over 3,000 most influential global leaders in renewable energy, including heads of state, policy makers, government officials, business leaders, and academics to discuss, promote and debate the challenges and solutions to the world’s energy requirements.

Dr. Moavenzadeh said: “The capital formation measures initiated by the UAE leadership covers human, intellectual and financial segments, while market creation measures include start-ups, joint ventures and entrepreneurial partnerships. To contribute to this very important initiative, the leadership has recognized the importance of collaboration among government, industry and academia.

“Creating a robust R&D infrastructure is not a short-term undertaking. Unwavering financial commitment must be made to ensure momentum is maintained and that the infrastructure is put in place to drive each phase of growth. This is the first and key component of the R&D plan.”

Listing the other components, Dr Moavenzadeh said in addition to funding basic research, which develops new ideas and is mostly carried out by academic institutions, others include applied research that translates new ideas and understandings into innovations that are the basis of industrial R&D, as well as demonstration and deployment that creates economic value and adds to the competitiveness of the economy. Commitment and involvement of academic institutions, industrial enterprises, government organizations and businesses are the other necessary ingredients, he concluded.

Citing the example of the University Leadership Council that was launched in the UAE recently under the patronage of His Excellency Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister for Higher Education and Scientific Research, Dr. Moavenzadeh said the new organization is mandated to focus on the need for R&D in the transformation of the economy in its capacity as an advisory board.

He added: “The University Leadership Council will host a forum on R&D in February, bringing together experts from the industry, government and academia to focus on the needs for the development of a robust R&D infrastructure in the UAE.”

The emirate of Abu Dhabi has already initiated a long-term plan to develop a sufficient and resilient infrastructure capable of supporting the anticipated economic growth in the coming years. However, the Abu Dhabi Government also aims to ensure the development of an appropriate infrastructure while preserving the environment, which is designated as a priority area.

Established in collaboration with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Masdar Institute integrates theory and practice to incubate a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship, working to develop the critical thinkers and leaders of tomorrow.  With its world-class faculty and top-tier students, the Institute is committed to finding solutions to the challenges of clean energy and climate change.

Masdar Institute’sTeam of Experts at LENS Facilitates Inclusion of Alumnus in Forbes 30 ‘Under 30’ Achievers List

Abu Dhabi-UAE: 15 January, 2012– Masdar Institute of Science and Technology, an independent, research-driven graduate-level university focused on advanced energy and sustainable technologies, today announced the faculty at its Laboratory for Energy and Nano Sciences (LENS)continues to remain at the forefront of innovation, offering students unique research opportunities in advanced technologies.

Founded by Dr. MatteoChiesa, LENS provides the hands-on experience, creative inspiration and rigorous academic training to graduate students and post-doctoral researchers that are essential for the successful development of science and technology in the fields of energy and nano sciences. The laboratory belongs jointly to the programs of Mechanical Engineering and Material Science at Masdar Institute.  Since its inception barely three years ago the LENS-men have already achieved several important milestones and recognitions.

Most recently, Steven Meyers, who was part of the LENS team under the guidance of Dr. Peter Armstrong, Associate Professor in Mechanical Engineering, has been selected in the esteemed Forbes 30 ‘Under 30’ achievers list in the ‘clean energy’ category. Meyers, an alumnus who graduated in June 2011, and Dr. Armstrong conducted research in thermal and optical modeling of the Beam Down Solar Thermal Plant at Masdar City.

Dr Fred Moavenzadeh, President of Masdar Institute of Science and Technology, said: “The inclusion of one of our alumni in the highly acclaimed global list of Forbes 30 Under-30 achievers indicates the status of our high-caliber faculty and students and the extent of our research thrust in areas that are deemed advanced in science and technology. This international recognition once again validates the status of Masdar Institute, where pioneering scientific research is conducted at its various laboratories. We thank the UAE’s leaders for creating an academic infrastructure that enables capacity building and develops students who can lead innovation through knowledge.”

Dr. Armstrong specializes in advanced heat and mass transfer, heat pumps and engines, solar thermal analysis, and model predictive control of energy systems. Dr Armstrong who currently guides the research of several research engineers and other students at Masdar Institute, said: “The inclusion of Steven Meyers in the Forbes 30 ‘Under-30’ list reflects Steve’s persistence, teamwork and maturity as a research engineer. Forbes’ recognition also testifies to the contemporary relevance of scientific research originating from the LENS at Masdar Institute.”

Prior to joining Masdar Institute, Dr. Armstrong worked with Pacific Northwest National Laboratory as a Senior Research Engineer on miniature devices, such as a man-portable heat pump and a hypothermic im¬plant, efficiency retrofits for domestic and Russian buildings, alternative cooling, and other new end-use and combined heat and power technologies. Dr. Armstrong holds a PhD in Building Technology from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and an MS in Mechanical Engineering from Colorado State University.  His current research and recent publications are divided between solar resource assessment and aerosol effects; low-cost solar desalination and dehumidification methods; and efficient, demand responsive cooling systems and controls.

Steven Meyers said: “I could not have achieved Forbes’ “30 Under 30” recognition without the guidance and support from my faculty advisors and fellow classmates within the LENS research group. This honor reflects Masdar Institute’s status as an academic research leader which offers continued and meaningful support to one-of-a-kind world class research facilities, most importantly the Beam Down Solar Thermal Concentrator.  Due to this fundamental support for the high-caliber faculty and the facilities, I am confident that the research experiences at Masdar will keep me and many of my classmates on the right track for even greater accomplishments in the future.”

The 27-year old Solar Engineer is currently working for Saudi Aramco. Meyers’ current responsibilities include feasibility studies into the deployment of concentrated solar power (CSP) and concentrating photovoltaics (CPV) systems within Saudi Arabia, along with solar resource assessment and site selection for solar thermal projects ranging from electricity generation and desalination to enhanced oil recovery and district cooling.

Forbes, the prestigious international publication, tracks down deserving young ‘over-achievers’ in 12 categories including technology, food and beverage, music, science, media, finance, as well as ‘social and mobile’.

Earlier, a fundamental study on nanoscale energy dissipation was chosen for its impact by the editorial board of the Nanotechnology journal to be part of a special edition that collects the highest relevant articles from 2011.The research group, led by Dr Matteo Chiesa, included Dr. Sergio Santos of LENS, the leading author of the manuscript, and a group of collaborators including Dr. Victor Barcons, Dr. Joseph Font, Dr. Albert Verdaguer and Dr. Neil H. Thomson from Spanish and British universities.

The UAE-based scientists at Masdar Institute have been prominently featured in industry and scientific publications respected worldwide and avidly read by scientists and researchers. Dr. Matteo Chiesa has already published his works in other scientific journals such as Nature Materials, Journal of Physics D and Solar Energy. Earlier, the prestigious ‘Science’ journal published for the first time a paper co-authored by a UAE-based scientist– Dr. Iyad Rahwan, Assistant Professor – Computing and Information Science, Masdar Institute.

The research activities at LENS focus on nanoscale energy transport, conversion, and storage, and on the application of nanotechnology towards the development of novel power generation devices and/or systems based on renewable energy sources. In this respect, LENS provides novel approach and expertise to improve power generation devices and systems used within Masdar City and of interest to the Masdar Initiative. LENS is part of Masdar Institute’s research agenda that is dedicated to promoting an R&D-based infrastructure.

Established as an on-going collaboration with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Masdar Institute integrates theory and practice to incubate a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship, working to develop the critical thinkers and leaders of tomorrow. With its world-class faculty and top-tier students, the Institute is committed to finding solutions to the challenges of clean and renewable energy, energy efficiency and climate change. 

His Excellency Sultan bin Rashed Al Dhaheri’s Gesture Reflects Support of Masdar Initiative, Its Various Projects in Renewable Energy and Creation of Opportunities for Development of Future Leaders

Abu Dhabi-UAE: 13 January, 2012 – Masdar Institute of Science and Technology, an independent, research-driven graduate-level university focused on advanced energy and sustainable technologies, today announced His Excellency Sultan bin Rashed Al Dhaheri, member of the Federal National Council, has donated one million US dollars towards the Young Future Energy Leaders (YFEL) program.

An outreach program by Masdar Institute, YFEL is a most pre-eminent program that aims to develop tomorrow’s leaders in the fields of advanced energy and sustainability. The contribution from His Excellency Sultan bin Rashed Al Dhaheri is expected to further strengthen YFEL’s continuing initiatives to educate, inspire and position students and young professionals to become future leaders capable of tackling the world’s most pressing challenges.

His Excellency Sultan bin Rashed Al Dhaheri’s individual contribution marks the second such initiative by a UAE national towards empowering youth and developing human capital in the UAE through the YFEL program. In 2011, Mohammed Bin Kardous Al Ameri, renowned Emirati philanthropist and enthusiastic supporter of YFEL contributed AED1 million to the program that seeks to provide a platform to engage youth in debates and global discussions in advanced energy and sustainability.

His Excellency Sultan bin Rashed Al Dhaheri said: “Education holds the key to social and economic progress. At the same time, it is equally important for the youth to acquire special workplace skills, leadership qualities and professional training, which have become mandatory in today’s labor market. The responsibility to provide these special skills lies with the community. As a member of the community and a UAE national, I feel privileged to contribute to the YFEL program, which nurtures and develops today’s youth and students into capable decision-makers of tomorrow. I see a great future for the UAE and its people through Masdar and its various initiatives. I am confident the YFEL program will continue to benefit more members in the coming months.”

Dr Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, Chief Executive Officer of Masdar, and Chairman of the Executive Committee of the Board of Trustees of Masdar Institute, said: “Knowledge-building measures, especially through outreach programs, are essential to develop the society for the future. In this aspect, we acknowledge His Excellency Sultan bin Rashed Al Dhaheri’s support with his noble contribution. This generous contribution is a testament to the value and the awareness Masdar has effectively created among the community, and demonstrates the importance of renewable energy and sustainable development, as well as the creation of a platform that enables our youth to excel.

“This is a remarkable gesture because these voluntary initiatives reflect the collective commitment by key members of the community towards developing capable leaders for the future. We thank the UAE’s wise leadership for their support to all our measures and we believe similar efforts by the wider community will help nurture the future energy industry leaders.”

Dr Fred Moavenzadeh, President, Masdar Institute of Science and Technology, said: “The commitment by His Excellency Sultan bin Rashed Al Dhaheri indicates the willingness of the UAE nationals to contribute to the development of human capital in the UAE. This gesture concurs with the objectives of Abu Dhabi’s leadership to make the emirate a knowledge-based economy. We are confident with the support of the country’s leadership, programs such as YFEL will make a remarkable impact in creating the right environment for youth and we welcome the participation of the Emirati community towards achieving our goals.”

His Excellency Sultan bin Rashed Al Dhaheri is one of the prominent members of the UAE business community and has helped establish some of the most important institutions in the private and government sectors in the UAE. Al Dhaheri was one of the Founder Members of the National Bank of Abu Dhabi (NBAD) and the Abu Dhabi National Insurance Company (ADNIC), and continues to be on the board of both the institutions.

Since 1971, as a Board member of the Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce, Al Dhaheri continues to contribute to the establishing and strengthening Abu Dhabi’s trade relations with other countries. Al Dhaheri is also the Chairman of Sultan Bin Rashed Company (Sultaco), a nationally-owned trading company based in Abu Dhabi with branches in Dubai, Sharjah and Al Ain. Established in 1968, Sultaco has an exhaustive list of illustrious projects and achievements.

As a dynamic forum, YFEL encourages highly qualified and talented students and young professionals to become proactive in their contribution towards debates and global discussion in advanced energy and sustainability. In addition, it helps members to enhance knowledge and leadership skills to achieve professional goals, organizes short courses, workshops and seminars, offers opportunities to share innovative ideas in advanced energy and sustainability with peers, provides networking opportunities and visibility through high level events and meetings, while recognizing members’ contributions and accomplishments.

The YFEL program offers young professionals and students from the UAE and abroad an opportunity to become more engaged in finding solutions to achieving energy efficiency and tackling climate change. It also aims to bring young professionals closer to government representatives, business leaders and other organizations active in the area of alternative energy and sustainability. 

YFEL Consistently Contributes to Developing Knowledge-Based Economy in UAE

Abu Dhabi-UAE: 3 January, 2012 – A widening support base that includes UAE nationals and various government and private institutions, an effective networking forum that engages the youth with global energy leaders, and an avenue for enhancing knowledge and leadership skills are some of the key characteristics that have made the Young Future Energy Leaders (YFEL) program, a Masdar Institute outreach initiative, one of the most dynamic platforms in the UAE for fostering tomorrow’s leaders.

Even more importantly, YFEL plays an instrumental role in building the UAE’s human capital, while contributing to the objectives of the Masdar initiative through developing a knowledge-based economy as spelt out by Abu Dhabi’s Vision 2030 program.

Throughout 2011, YFEL has consistently supported eligible youth, engaged them in global events, offered exclusive academic and professional courses locally and at renowned universities overseas, and guided them through offering specialized courses in advanced energy and sustainable technology. These initiatives were part of the annual YFEL program that reaches out to mould the members into consummate professionals while steering them on the right path towards overall development.

With the successful completion of the 2011 program, the stage is now set for the YFEL members to participate in the forthcoming World Future Energy Summit (WFES) that will be held from 16-19 January, 2012 in Abu Dhabi. A key element of WFES, YFEL will gather global political and business leaders as well as NGOs. And, through YFEL, students from universities in the UAE and internationally, and young professionals from local companies will be attending specialized forums, seminars, debates and panels at WFES.

In YFEL 2011, a total of 150 students and young professionals participated – nominated by their Deans and CEOs respectively. They included 60 UAE National students from key universities as well as 20 young professionals from companies such as Etihad Airways, Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC), Abu Dhabi Water and Electricity Authority (ADWEA), Emirates Foundation, and Mubadala. The program also increased international participation, inviting students from universities such as Harvard, MIT, Duke, and Hong Kong University of Science and Technology.

The YFEL program expanded beyond the four-day event at WFES in Abu Dhabi to become a full-year program that included two-day workshops on Technology, Leadership and Policy, as well as a case study competition that selected winners to attend the European Future Energy Forum (EFEF 2011) in Geneva. Four YFEL participants from UAE University were also selected to participate in a two-week experience at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) based on innovative research projects they had developed and displayed at WFES 2011.

The October 2011 visit to Geneva to attend the EFEF 2011 marked a crucial moment in the YFEL program. For the 14-member YFEL team, it was an occasion to listen to and witness some of the most interesting workshops and panel discussions that showcased evolving new clean technology trends and products. In addition, the MIT Summer Practical Course hosted in June significantly benefited the YFEL members to acquire various job-related skills, hands-on experience and exposed them to international research culture.

Some individual and institutional sponsors have steadfastly supported the YFEL. Mohamed Bin Kardous Al Ameri, an Emirati philanthropist made a personal contribution of AED1 million to the Young Future Energy Leaders (YFEL) program in 2011. Highly influenced by the late Sheikh Zayed Al Nahyan, the Founding Father of the UAE, Al Ameri is an advocate of education in the UAE. In his opinion, today’s youth in the UAE have great opportunities to pursue higher education because of the presence of world class institutions. For Al Ameri, the YFEL program is unique – in setting precedence and creating role models – and identifying young people who would like to contribute to the environment and country.

In addition to the vital support provided by government and private sector organizations, such individual support has remained crucial in offering the right ingredients to the young professionals and students who are members of the YFEL program.

Communication has an important role to play in keeping pace with such a hectic schedule of events. In addition to a half-yearly newsletter that keeps participants informed of each other’s achievements and events, YFEL members also utilize social media platforms such as Facebook to communicate and keep themselves informed on developments at various fronts as well as to keep in contact with each other while forming a strong network of future leaders.

It is pertinent to note that the pre-eminent YFEL program develops tomorrow’s leaders in the fields of advanced energy and sustainability while equipping the students and young professionals with the right skill sets. The expertise these talented youth have acquired is expected to help them develop into capable leaders in steering the world towards sustainability as well as contribute towards building a knowledge-based society in the region.

The UAE leadership continues their support to YFEL in its efforts towards capacity building and knowledge development. At the same time, YFEL was able to accomplish so much during the year because of the significant contribution by business leaders and CEOs of sponsor organizations as well as some individual UAE national donors who have remained committed to empowering the youth.
Probably the most salient feature of the YFEL program is its ability to offer exposure to new technological trends and products, in addition to opportunities for mentoring and knowledge-sharing.

Moreover, the unique YFEL program helps in developing human capital to positively involve the youth in leading the change and building a better future. The program has steadily attracted an increasing number of young professionals and select university students. In 2011, a diverse team of experts have shared their insights with the YFEL members on various subjects in clean energy and sustainable technologies. The dedicated courses on policy, leadership and technology during the year offered an opportunity for the YFEL members to identify areas in the global energy sector that may need their contribution in innovation.

An outreach program by Masdar Institute of Science and Technology, YFEL aims to educate, inspire and position students and young professionals in advanced energy and sustainability to become future leaders capable of solving the world’s most pressing challenges – energy efficiency and climate change.

As an independent, research-driven graduate-level university focused on advanced energy and sustainable technology, the Masdar Institute of Science and Technology continues to initiate programs that nurture the youth and prepared them to meet the challenges of tomorrow, especially in the energy sector.