Formula Schools: Saudi students' creativity in engineering the future
Al-Youm newspaper documented the launch of the Formula Schools Competition (STEM Saudi Arabia), a prominent scientific and technological event organized by the King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra). The program sees wide participation from public school students across the Kingdom, who compete in designing and building miniature Formula cars that simulate global industrial and professional environments, thus helping them transform their personal passions into promising career paths in engineering and technology.
History of the Formula Schools initiative and its educational vision
The Formula 1 in Schools competition is one of the world’s leading educational initiatives, established decades ago to attract young people to the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). In Saudi Arabia, the Ithra Center has adopted this initiative to provide an interactive learning environment that aligns with the aspirations of Saudi Vision 2030 to build a vibrant society and a sustainable knowledge-based economy. The program aims to bridge the gap between theoretical education and practical application by empowering students to gain a comprehensive experience encompassing engineering design, project management, marketing, and teamwork.
The local and international impact of the Formula Schools program in Saudi Arabia
The Formula Schools competition holds immense importance both locally and internationally. Locally, it contributes to preparing a new generation of engineers and innovators capable of leading the Kingdom's industrial and automotive sectors, particularly given the national drive to localize the electric and advanced vehicle industry. Internationally, the qualification of Saudi teams to compete in the world finals in Singapore places young national talent on the global innovation map and strengthens the Kingdom's presence in international scientific and technological forums as a nurturing environment for exceptional talent.
Advanced and aerodynamic technologies in the hands of students
Student Reem Al-Ghamdi, from the third intermediate grade in Jeddah, explained that her team is working on building a miniature racing car using advanced technologies including computer sculpting and 3D printing. She emphasized that these cars undergo rigorous performance tests on 15-meter tracks, covering the distance in less than a second, requiring exceptional engineering precision. For her part, student Shahd Hafez, from the second year of secondary school, stated that their car's design was initially inspired by the shape of a falcon, the fastest living creature, before being modified according to aerodynamic principles to improve flow and applied physics on a straight track.
Marketing and Project Management: A Real-Life Professional Experience
In addition to engineering design, administrative aspects play a pivotal role in the competition. Student Lina Al-Amir, a member of the "Resen" team in the Marketing Department, emphasized that participation enhanced her communication, problem-solving, visual identity building, and sponsorship acquisition skills. Dr. Hamza Maqsoud, a judge in the Engineering and Design track, affirmed that the competition trains students in project management and fundraising, noting that the competition progresses through regional stages, including Al-Ahsa, Dhahran, Riyadh, Madinah, and Jeddah, culminating in the national stage and then the global finals in Singapore. Project management trainer Ahmed Al-Atrash concluded by pointing out that the program paves the way for early entry into the job market, as some participants have already secured internship opportunities and engaged in real, productive professional projects.
