Ferrari World’s challenge: Beat the ride of your life

Initiative to prepare Emirati students for theme park industry launched yesterday in Abu Dhabi.

Formula Rossa, the fastest roller coaster in the world. Pupils are being asked to design one that can take it on. Christopher Pike / The National

Ferrari World has issued a challenge to pupils across the UAE to design a quicker rollercoaster than its famous Formula Rossa – the world’s fastest.

"Coaster Lab" is a collaboration between Ferrari World, the Ministry of Education and the Abu Dhabi Education Council (Adec), that will hopefully lead young Emiratis to consider careers in the theme-park industry.

It will help students to learn about the physics of rollercoasters and concepts such as energy conversion, hydraulic launch systems, aerodynamics and gravitational force.

Open to schools across the UAE, it will culminate in a design competition with entries judged by a panel of industry experts.

Mike Oswald, general manager of Ferrari World, invited pupils to try to design the fastest prototype possible.

“We are committed in our efforts to help pave the way for a new generation of UAE talent, and will continue to be at the forefront of inspiring innovative learning methodologies in the UAE,” Mr Oswald said.

“This initiative will not only generate tremendous employment potential but also motivate and educate the bright young minds in the nation by providing them with the platform they need to be part of this exciting industry.”

The programme is to be launched this academic year and will offer pupils a mix of theory and practice.

It also aims to help them to improve skills in problem solving, teamwork and communication, and analytical and creative thinking.

Fawzia Gharib, assistant under secretary for educational operations at the Ministry of Education, said the programme aimed to help students discover their talents.

“The Ministry of Education is profoundly keen on diversifying educational sources of knowledge and sciences,” Mrs Gharib said.

She said the ministry was “constantly looking for establishing qualitative partnerships with related associations and bodies, as well as authorities that launch developing projects for talented students”.

Salama Al Amimi, a director at Adec, said Coaster Lab aimed to engage in more interactive methods of teaching.

"Adec adopts the New School Model that is based on a student-centered learning approach, where students learn in a resource and technology-rich environment, within modern teaching facilities that enhance critical thinking and problem solving and help build self-confidence, creativity and innovation skills.

“This collaboration with Ferrari World Abu Dhabi comes in line with the council’s keenness to promote community involvement among students.

“This will reflect on their learning and help them participate in practical experience that calls for creativity, excellence and will help address their own interests and preferences.”