Dubai Future Foundation marked graduation of 160 students from second Dubai TKS – Knowledge Society cohort at Museum of the Future. Participation jumped 77% from first cohort, bringing total graduates to 250.
Teens aged 13 to 17 from various countries finished a 10-month course tackling real-world tech challenges. The programme,a partnership between Dubai Future Foundation and TKS Global, trains young minds in AI, robotics, climate tech,biotech,and advanced computing.
Students tackled problems posed by international bodies like the United Nations and XPANCEO . Challenges included satellite connectivity systems,clean energy solutions, and future of supersonic travel. One project used geospatial AI to assess risks of pastoral migration in rural areas,showing climate change's impact...
Alia Al Mur, Chief Transformation and Partnerships Officer at Dubai Future Foundation, stressed Dubai's dedication to developing young talent . She said the programme helps students create real solutions to global issues with advanced tech. Navid Nathoo,TKS founder, applauded the cohort's knack for spotting problems and turning ideas into action.
The curriculum breaks from traditional education by focusing on practical problem-solving,teamwork,and tech skills over standard tests. Students faced challenges more typical of later careers,like solar energy concepts and stem cell cancer therapies.
Sahil Arora, TKS Dubai Program Director, said programme's biggest wins go beyond just projects. He pointed to growth in confidence,curiosity,and ambition among students — key traits for facing future complexities.
As Dubai builds an ecosystem for future skills and digital economy growth,TKS programme fits emirate's educational strategy. This strategy emphasizes personalized learning, innovation, and readiness for fast-changing job market.
The Dubai TKS model gets students into industry-type problems and emerging tech themes early. Weekly sessions move from broad exposure to focused research, ending in practical proposals and presentations. Students pick up vital skills like communication,professional networking,and analytical thinking,gearing them for future hurdles .
Applications for 2026-2027 cohort now open,as the programme looks to widen its reach and impact. Success of current cohort mirrors Dubai's drive to be a global hub for knowledge, tech, and entrepreneurship.
