Starting this September, schools across the UAE will engage students in a groundbreaking initiative that merges education with motorsport through the Greenpower program.
This program invites students to design, construct, and race electric cars as a core part of their curriculum, paving the way for future careers in both motorsport and electric vehicle engineering.
Greenpower is an established educational initiative with a strong presence in Europe, the US, and Asia, where over 10,000 students annually take part in hands-on activities that combine the excitement of racing with STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) learning.
This innovative program offers students practical experiences that prepare them for careers in engineering, motorsport management, and other technical fields.
Pole Position, a Dubai-based motorsports consultancy linked with the Greenpower Education Trust, is spearheading the introduction of this challenge to the UAE. Initially involving 41 schools from the GEMS Education network, the program will see students work in teams to design and build electric kit cars provided by the UK-based charity.
Teams, consisting of three drivers and a support crew, will compete in the Formula 24 category, designed for students aged 11-16, at the iconic Dubai Autodrome.
The aim is to spark serious interest in motorsports among students and gain the support of educators to sustain these activities long-term.
The Greenpower program aims to foster a diverse future workforce, with a goal of increasing female participation in STEM fields. Historically, 40% of Greenpower participants are women, and the initiative seeks to continue this trend by encouraging a more inclusive approach to science and engineering careers.
Over the years, Greenpower has seen over 2,500 teams compete and has been highlighted by the Hamilton Commission, founded by Formula 1 legend Lewis Hamilton, as a vital effort to enhance diversity within the motorsport industry.