UAE Announces New Esports and Game Design Academy with Scholarships

A new Esports and Game Design Academy is set to launch in September 2024, aiming to nurture the next generation of esports talent across all GEMS schools in the UAE.

Managed centrally, this academy will offer scholarships, providing students opportunities in competitive gaming and game design while ensuring holistic development. This initiative supports the UAE's strategy to establish itself as a global gaming hub, with the Dubai Future Foundation leading a $1 billion effort to create 30,000 jobs by 2033.

GEMS Education reaffirms its commitment to leveraging the educational potential of esports. Students will not only excel in gaming but also acquire critical thinking, teamwork, and leadership skills. Sunny Varkey, Group Chairman of GEMS Global, emphasised the academy's role in transforming lives through innovation, offering industry-level game design learning from a young age.

The academy will foster a safe environment for students, using age-appropriate games to support their personal, social, and cognitive development. It will provide a structured platform for learning, competitions, and career exploration in the gaming industry, with dedicated esports leads and student ambassador groups in each school.

Baz Nijjar, Principal Advisor – Education Technology, highlighted the academy's focus on creating a dynamic learning environment where students can thrive and develop essential skills. The initiative also ensures a safe and secure gaming environment, emphasising wellbeing, nutrition, fitness, and mental dexterity, mirroring professional esports athletes' lifestyles.

GEMS schools have a proven track record in promoting esports and game design, providing students with valuable opportunities in this rapidly growing sector.