Qatar Academy for Science and Technology (QAST), part of Qatar Foundation (QF) Pre-University Education, kicked off its inaugural school year with an engineering camp organised in collaboration with QF partner university Texas A&M University at Qatar (TAMUQ).

During the week-long camp, students designed and built their own model drones and were introduced to basic micro controllers, aviation dynamics and programming. The camp concluded with a programming challenge, which saw students autonomously fly their drones through an obstacle course.

Grade 9 student Fajer Al Shamari said they really enjoyed programming the drones.

It was really interesting – you do not know what you are capable of until you try something, and practice. It gave me a whole new perspective on perfecting work through precision.’

Another Grade 9 student Haiqa Massoudi, said the camp was a ‘unique experience’.

I learned something new through collaboration with fellow classmates and teachers during the process.’

According to QAST Director Dr Gregory J Moncada, the programme was created to introduce engineering fundamentals to the students, while highlighting creativity and skill development.

Ultimately, the objective of the programme is to prepare students to, in the future, address Qatar’s challenges through research and innovation.’

The drone programme was developed by members of TAMUQ through the STEM Hub, a joint initiative with the Qatar National Research Fund. It aims to nurture innovative thinking and a talent for original design in Qatar’s young students.

Check out this link for more information about QAST.