GEMS Education has launched a new Esports andGame DesignAcademy, a pioneering initiative designed to support and develop the next generation of esports talent across all GEMS schools,with rollout set forSeptember 2024.
Thecentrally run Academy will offerascholarship prize fund aimed at providing students with unprecedented opportunities in the burgeoning field of competitive gaming and game design while at the same time ensuring the holistic development of each child competing.
The initiative is aligned with the broader UAE strategy to establish the country as a global hub for gaming and esports, with Dubai Future Foundation spearheading a US$1 billion ecosystem to create 30,000 jobs by 2033, as launched by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Dubai Future Foundation.
GEMS is committed to leveraging the educational potential of esports, ensuring students not only excel in gaming but also develop vital personal and professional skills related to the growing sector – one that is already larger than both the music and movie industries combined.
Sunny Varkey, Group Chairman of GEMS Global and Founder of the Varkey Foundation and GEMS Education, said: “At GEMS Education, we believe in the power of innovation to transform lives. The launch of our Esports andGame DesignAcademy is a testament to our commitment to providing students with opportunities to engage in leading industries.
“Esports is more than just gaming; it’s about developing critical thinking, teamwork, and leadership skills. Students are able to create 2D and 3D games from a young age, and we will provide access to industry-level game design learning.
“We are excited to support our students in exploring their passions and preparing for future success. We look forward to discovering the next generation of esports talent – who may even go on to one day compete at the Olympics.”
The GEMS Esports andGame DesignAcademy aims to foster safe and engaging environments for students through selected age-appropriate games. It will support the holistic student development of pupils with a focus on personal, social, and cognitive skills.
The Academy will provide a structured platform for learning materials, league participation, competitions, hackathons, accreditations, and qualifications, while enabling students to explore careers and university opportunities in the gaming industry.It will establish staff esport leads, student ambassador and leadership groups in each GEMS school with a focus on gaming for good.
Baz Nijjar, Principal Advisor – Education Technologyat GEMS Educationand who is a member of the government-backed Dubai Program for Gaming 2033 Working Group,said: “Our approach to esports and game design places GEMS Education at the forefront of educational innovation in the region. The Esports andGame DesignAcademy is not just about fostering gaming talent; it’s about creating a dynamic learning environment where students can thrive, develop essential holistic skills, and prepare and adapt for the future with transferrable skills.
“We are proud to lead this initiative in the region and look forward to seeing our students excel in and out of the gaming arena, transferring their skills to support academic and personal development goals.”
“Additionally, we are committed to providing a safe and secure environment where children can game wisely while learning about wellbeing, food and nutrition, fitness, and mental dexterity – just like professional esports athletes. The transferable skills gained through esports are invaluable and will benefit our students in all aspects of life.”
GEMS Education already has a four-year track record in promoting esports and game design providing its students unrivalled opportunities in the sector. GEMS launched the first K-12 qualificationsin the Middle East in esports and game design, with students and staff also gaining accreditations from industry leaders such asUnreal Engine and Unity.
In recent years, GEMS students have had great success competing in diverse interschool as well as regional and global gaming competitions and tournaments, in popular titles such as Minecraft, Rocket League, and Fortnite.
GEMS student Aliya Al Marzooqi, who recently became the first female Emirati in K-12 education to graduate with two qualifications in esports and game design, said: “I am honoured to be a pioneer in this field. My journey has been about breaking new ground and taking a new path for others to follow.
“The skills and experiences I’ve gained have empowered me as I pursue my passion in these dynamic and evolving industries. I am committed to continuing this journey, promoting gender equality, and encouraging more women to take bold steps into the world of game design and esports.”
