Students in the UAE are expanding their horizons beyond conventional science fields for their future careers. The top high school graduates for the 2023-2024 academic year are aiming to enter professions in artificial intelligence (AI), cybersecurity, and space engineering, alongside traditional medical science.
These outstanding students received praise from Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE, and the Ruler of Dubai, who acknowledged their achievements on X. Among the top achievers was Ward Mahmoud, one of the eight valedictorians. Born and raised in the UAE as a Palestinian, Ward led the general stream in private education and intends to study AI or data science at Khalifa University.
In a social media announcement, it was disclosed that these top students were also honored with a gift from Sheikh Mohammed in celebration of their academic excellence for the 2023-2024 year. Alyazia Al Shamsi, who excelled in the general stream at the Applied Technology High School for Girls, plans to venture into space engineering, inspired by the UAE’s accomplishments in space. She emphasized the critical role of time management and family support in her academic journey.
Nada Al Maazmi, who outperformed peers in the advanced stream at the Applied Technology High School in Ajman, is set to study cybersecurity engineering at the American University of Sharjah, driven by a strong desire to serve her country. Meanwhile, other students are drawn to medical sciences. Abdalla Mekhimar, the top student at Ras Al Khaimah Boys' School, aims to contribute to humanity through medicine, while Waleed Alasadi, passionate about community service, plans to enroll in the College of Medicine at UAE University.
Mayed Al Hmoudi from Fujairah, who excelled in the advanced science stream, also intends to pursue medical studies at UAE University.
