Formula Saudi Schools: Students' creativity in engineering the future
Al-Youm newspaper reported on the launch of the Saudi Schools Formula (Saudi STEM Race), organized by the King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra). The competition features wide participation from public school students who design and build miniature Formula cars that simulate global industrial and professional environments. This pioneering initiative aims to empower the next generation with technological and innovative tools, helping students transform their personal passions into promising career paths that support the Kingdom's industrial development.
The history of the Formula Schools initiative and its educational importance
The Formula Schools competition is one of the world’s leading educational programs that aims to integrate STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields in an interactive and competitive environment. This initiative in Saudi Arabia reflects the Kingdom’s firm commitment to achieving the goals of Saudi Vision 2030 in developing human capital and preparing a generation equipped with 21st-century skills. Through this platform, students gain practical experience in engineering design, project management, and marketing, paving the way for building a strong national base of young talent qualified to compete internationally.
Advanced technologies in the design of Formula cars for Saudi schools
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 the cars undergo rigorous performance tests on 15-meter tracks, where their speed reaches less than one second, demanding exceptional engineering precision. The student noted that the program allowed her to discover her passion for mechanical engineering and apply it practically, affirming that such initiatives embody the Kingdom's commitment to empowering young talent.
For her part, Shahd Hafez, a second-year high school student, stated that the design was initially inspired by the shape of a falcon, the fastest living creature, before being modified according to aerodynamic standards. She explained that the fundamental difference between their cars and real models lies in the nature of the straight track, which necessitates design considerations aimed at improving aerodynamic efficiency and applying applied physics.
Marketing and Project Management: Pillars of Success in the Race
In a related context, Lina Al-Amir, a member of the "Resen" team in the Marketing Department, emphasized that the participation enhanced her communication, problem-solving, and visual identity management skills. She noted that the role of marketing is no less important than engineering, as it includes attracting sponsors and building a media brand, which boosted her confidence in communicating with supporting entities.
For his part, Dr. Hamza Maqsoud, a judge in the engineering and design track, confirmed that the competition involves forming student teams to build Formula cars using precise engineering principles and simulation tools. He added that the program trains students in project management and fundraising, providing a comprehensive experience that simulates the real-world work environment in industrial sectors.
The competition's impact locally and globally towards the Singapore finals
Dr. Hamza Maqsoud pointed out 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. This progression gives the event significant importance both locally and internationally, as Saudi students represent their country on the world stage, thus reinforcing the Kingdom's position as a leading regional hub for technological and engineering innovation.
For his part, project management trainer Ahmed Al-Atrash stated that this track focuses on financial and organizational aspects, fostering a sense of responsibility and teamwork among team members. He concluded by noting that the program prepares participants for early entry into the job market, with some already securing training opportunities and engaging in real, productive professional projects. The program serves as an advanced educational platform, offering students a comprehensive experience across six key centers, designed to hone their innovation and teamwork skills in advanced technological fields.
