The 2024 Yas in Schools National Finals, presented by ADNOC, made history with a record-breaking five days of thrilling competition among the UAE's top schools. Over 1,200 students and 314 teams from 89 schools competed fiercely for the prestigious National Champions title, showcasing unprecedented levels of participation and enthusiasm.
Three national champions triumphed across the event's three dynamic programs, showcasing its diverse accomplishments. Formula Ethara participants were challenged this year with creating AI showcase cars, while participants across the 3 programs were challenged to integrate sustainability initiatives within their chosen competition category: F1® in Schools, Formula Ethara, or 4x4 in Schools. The National Finals not only honored excellence in STEM education but also served as a lively platform for young talents to innovate and excel on a national stage.
The first two days of the National Finals, held on June 20th and 21st, showcased the F1® in Schools competition, where over 500 students emulated real-life Formula 1® racing teams by forming fully functional teams. Participants undertook challenges including securing sponsorships, developing sustainable business models, and crafting race-ready mini cars for the competition. Team Zephyros from Raha International School (Gardens Campus) emerged victorious, securing their position as the 2024 F1® in Schools UAE National Champions and earning the prestigious opportunity to represent the United Arab Emirates at the F1® in Schools World Finals.
The following two days, June 22nd and 23rd, featured over 500 students in the competitions of Formula Ethara and its entry-level program, Ethara Go. Formula Ethara, renowned for its rigorous standards, saw teams of students engaging in multifaceted challenges including designing and presenting verbal presentations, and crafting impressive pit displays—all integral to their scores. Team Veloci Raptors from Delhi Private School Sharjah emerged as the 2024 Formula Ethara National Champions, demonstrating exemplary teamwork and innovation.
The event wrapped up with the 4x4 in Schools National Finals, where over 100 students were chosen to participate. They engineered and coded 4x4 remote-controlled cars, navigating through three challenging stages, which marked the culmination of a noteworthy season at the Yas in Schools National Finals presented by ADNOC. Team Off Centre from Our Own High School emerged victorious, as the 2024 4x4 in Schools National Champions.
Ali Al Beshr, Motorsport Development Executive Director, Ethara, said: 'Experiencing the creativity, innovation, and enthusiasm of our students at this year's Yas in Schools National Finals presented by ADNOC has been truly inspiring. The record-breaking participation we've witnessed this season underscores the growing success of our program over the past 15 years.
The recent inauguration of the ADNOC Yas in Schools Experience Centre marks a significant milestone in our commitment to advancing STEM-based education nationwide. As the world's first dedicated F1 ® in Schools facility, our partnership with ADNOC has paved the way for Ethara to support innovative approaches to STEM learning, both inside and outside of classrooms.'
