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Mid East Info
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Mid East Info
Khalifa Fund honors the winners of the Venturist Summer Camp competition for gaming development - Middle East Business News and Information
The Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development KFED honoured winners of the top three positions for the eighth edition of its Venturist Summer Camp, which was held from July 7 to 11, 2025, at the 42 Abu Dhabi headquarters, with the participation of 50 Emirati students. The camp is part of Khalifa Fund's ongoing initiatives to foster an entrepreneurial culture, cultivate specialised skills and offer practical expertise to national talents and professionals. The Venturist Summer Camp's training program was conducted in two different pathways. The first pathway catered to participants aged 13 to 15, aiming to build a strong foundation in programming and game development. The second pathway was designed for those aged 16 to 18, offering advanced training in game development, with a focus on cutting-edge techniques and creative approaches. On the opening day, participants engaged in experimentation, networking, collaboration and idea exploration activities. The second day, themed 'Foundations and Collaborative Critiques', enabled participants to construct core game elements and refine their concepts through peer feedback. The third day focused on the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and programming, offering participants hands-on experience in large language models (LLMs) and LUA coding language. On the fourth day, the focus was on providing final inspiration, during which participants explored professional game designs to spark creative ideas. The camp concluded with the presentation of refined games, providing a dynamic platform to showcase projects, strengthen a culture of teamwork and develop entrepreneurial thinking, all under the guidance of experienced industry professionals. On the final day, the camp selected winning teams. First place was jointly awarded to Sara Abuhalqia and Mahra Alsalami (Pearl of the Damned) and Mohammed Rayn Ahmed and Hamad Alshemeili (Pick your Poison). The second position was shared by Hamad AlKatheeri (Echo Rift) and Khalid Alhammadi and Abdelaziz Yousif (Sands of Unity). Third place was won by Alyazia Alshamsi, Aljoori Amer Almansoori, Aldana Eisa Alkaabi and Meera Abdullah (Kingdom Valley). Her Excellency Mouza Al Nasri, CEO of the Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development, said: 'At Khalifa Fund, we believe in the significant role of children and youth in driving national development and shaping the future by equipping them with advanced tools and technologies and foster their creative skills. The Venturist Summer Camp reflects our strategic vision, providing participants a comprehensive ecosystem with advanced tools to refine their innovative skills, promote an entrepreneurial culture and take their initial step towards promising careers in programming and game development fields, which hold a pivotal position in the current economic landscape. On this occasion, we congratulate all the winning teams on their achievement and wish them success in their future endeavours in programming and game development. We extend our appreciation to all participants for their ambition and creativity.' Since its launch in 2022, the Venturist Summer Camp has attracted over 750 Emirati students through its diverse training programs. About Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development: The Khalifa Fund is an independent, non-profit organisation affiliated with Abu Dhabi Government. Its mission is to nurture the culture of entrepreneurship, promote innovation, and offer support for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) within the UAE through a balanced ecosystem. Founded in 2007 in accordance with Law No. 14 of 2005 and its amendments, the Fund was established to align with the vision of the late Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, former President of the United Arab Emirates.
Al Etihad
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Al Etihad
Winners of Khalifa Fund's Venturist Summer Camp game development competition honoured
18 July 2025 17:30 SARA ALZAABI (ABU DHABI)The top winners of the eighth edition of the Venturist Summer Camp – an initiative of the Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development designed to cultivate entrepreneurial thinking and digital skills among youth – were honoured during a ceremony at the 42 Abu Dhabi its launch in 2022, the Venturist Summer Camp has attracted over 750 Emirati students through its diverse training programmes, Khalifa Al Kuwaiti, Executive Director of the Entrepreneurship Sector at Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development, told camp held from July 7 to 11 at 42 Abu Dhabi witnessed the participation of 50 Emirati students, showcasing their creativity in game Kuwaiti said that game development is a strategic pillar in Abu Dhabi's creative economy, aligned with the emirate's long-term innovation goals.'Khalifa Fund recognises game development as a cornerstone of Abu Dhabi's growing creative and digital economy. By integrating it into youth-focused programmes like the Venturist Summer Camp, the Fund aims to equip the next generation with critical thinking, innovation, and entrepreneurial capabilities and support Abu Dhabi's ambition to cultivate a diversified, future-ready economy rooted in knowledge and creativity,' he camp featured two training pathways for students aged 13 to 15, and aged 16 to 18 with a focus on programming, AI integration, as well as hands-on development using large language models and LUA coding. On the final day of the camp, first place was jointly awarded to Sara Abuhalqia and Mahra Alsalami (Pearl of the Damned), and Mohammed Rayn Ahmed and Hamad Alshemeili (Pick Your Poison). Second place went to Hamad AlKatheeri (Echo Rift) and Khalid Alhammadi with Abdelaziz Yousif (Sands of Unity), while third place was won by Alyazia Alshamsi, Aljoori Amer Almansoori, Aldana Eisa Alkaabi, and Meera Abdullah (Kingdom Valley). 'Khalifa Fund is proactively identifying and building a pipeline of future-ready Emiratis by introducing youth as early as 13 years old to fundamentals of creative technology, game design, coding, and entrepreneurship,' Al Kuwaiti explained. 'Through a structured bootcamp such as Venturist, we are able to not only expose them to technical skills but real-world projects, mentorships, critical thinking, and teamwork capabilities, aligned with the needs of the gaming industry.'Moving beyond training, Khalifa Fund is also committed to helping young game developers transform their ideas into viable startups.'Participants are guided through ideation and prototyping during the camp, while the Fund's broader ecosystem offers mentorship, funding, and incubation support, creating clear pathways from passion projects to viable startups,' Al Kuwaiti noted that they are exploring the expansion of the programme to include dedicated tracks focused on high-growth gaming subsectors such as AR/VR, esports, and educational game to Al Kuwaiti, the camp's flexible structure enables it to adapt quickly to the demands of evolving global terms of broader alignment, Al Kuwaiti said that the Fund is closely coordinating with Abu Dhabi's digital economy and innovation agendas. 'By collaborating with strategic partners in the industry, we leverage shared strengths, combining funding, infrastructure, training, and mentorship to build a pipeline of homegrown talent. This contributes to Abu Dhabi's vision of becoming a regional innovation hub.'On how Khalifa Fund plans to measure long-term success, Al Kuwaiti emphasised a comprehensive and impact-driven approach to measuring the long-term success of its initiatives in the gaming sector. 'This includes both quantitative and qualitative indicators that reflect the depth and sustainability of the ecosystem being built,' he success metrics include developing talent that meets industry needs and strengthening partnerships to support knowledge transfer, global exposure, and commercialisation. 'Through these outcomes, Khalifa Fund aims to position Abu Dhabi not only as a hub for nurturing creative talent, but also as a leader in developing a homegrown gaming industry that contributes to the UAE's economic vision and global creative footprint.'
Web Release
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Web Release
Khalifa Fund honors the winners of the Venturist Summer Camp competition for gaming development
The Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development (KFED) honoured winners of the top three positions for the eighth edition of its Venturist Summer Camp, which was held from July 7 to 11, 2025, at the 42 Abu Dhabi headquarters, with the participation of 50 Emirati students. The camp is part of Khalifa Fund's ongoing initiatives to foster an entrepreneurial culture, cultivate specialised skills and offer practical expertise to national talents and professionals. The Venturist Summer Camp's training program was conducted in two different pathways. The first pathway catered to participants aged 13 to 15, aiming to build a strong foundation in programming and game development. The second pathway was designed for those aged 16 to 18, offering advanced training in game development, with a focus on cutting-edge techniques and creative approaches. On the opening day, participants engaged in experimentation, networking, collaboration and idea exploration activities. The second day, themed 'Foundations and Collaborative Critiques', enabled participants to construct core game elements and refine their concepts through peer feedback. The third day focused on the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and programming, offering participants hands-on experience in large language models (LLMs) and LUA coding language. On the fourth day, the focus was on providing final inspiration, during which participants explored professional game designs to spark creative ideas. The camp concluded with the presentation of refined games, providing a dynamic platform to showcase projects, strengthen a culture of teamwork and develop entrepreneurial thinking, all under the guidance of experienced industry professionals. On the final day, the camp selected winning teams. First place was jointly awarded to Sara Abuhalqia and Mahra Alsalami (Pearl of the Damned) and Mohammed Rayn Ahmed and Hamad Alshemeili (Pick your Poison). The second position was shared by Hamad AlKatheeri (Echo Rift) and Khalid Alhammadi and Abdelaziz Yousif (Sands of Unity). Third place was won by Alyazia Alshamsi, Aljoori Amer Almansoori, Aldana Eisa Alkaabi and Meera Abdullah (Kingdom Valley). Her Excellency Mouza Al Nasri, CEO of the Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development, said: 'At Khalifa Fund, we believe in the significant role of children and youth in driving national development and shaping the future by equipping them with advanced tools and technologies and foster their creative skills. The Venturist Summer Camp reflects our strategic vision, providing participants a comprehensive ecosystem with advanced tools to refine their innovative skills, promote an entrepreneurial culture and take their initial step towards promising careers in programming and game development fields, which hold a pivotal position in the current economic landscape. On this occasion, we congratulate all the winning teams on their achievement and wish them success in their future endeavours in programming and game development. We extend our appreciation to all participants for their ambition and creativity.' Since its launch in 2022, the Venturist Summer Camp has attracted over 750 Emirati students through its diverse training programs.
Entrepreneur
10-07-2025
- Business
- Entrepreneur
Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development and 42 Abu Dhabi to Host the 'Piscine' Coding Bootcamp in Al Ain Region
You're reading Entrepreneur Middle East, an international franchise of Entrepreneur Media. Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development (KFED) partnered with 42 Abu Dhabi (42AD) to host the first edition of the intensive coding bootcamp, the 'Piscine,' at Khalifa Fund Al Ain Region Campus. Running between July 14 to August 7, 2025, the collaboration is part of joint efforts to empower young talents and prepare a new generation of coders and entrepreneurs. The Piscine is an intense and immersive bootcamp designed to equip participants with foundational coding capabilities while challenging their adaptability, problem-solving abilities, and collaboration skills. This program offers a unique opportunity for individuals, regardless of their background or prior coding experience, to build in-demand digital skills through a hands-on, peer-to-peer learning model. The bootcamp will train 100 participants with essential coding and AI skills. Potential applicants who are interested in joining the upcoming 'Piscine' can visit 42 Abu Dhabi's official website, where they will have to complete 42 Abu Dhabi's pre-selection 'Game' - an online assessment that evaluates cognitive capacity via logic and memory tests. Following this, they will attend an in-person check-in discovery session to be briefed on the Piscine and the learning methodology. Once candidates successfully complete the Piscine, they will be eligible to join the accredited Diploma in Software Development program offered at 42 Abu Dhabi's campus in Abu Dhabi. With the support of Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development, individuals from various backgrounds, including those looking to enhance their digital skills or shift into tech-focused careers, will be empowered to build new coding capabilities and actively contribute to the growing digital ecosystem. This aligns with KFED's broader vision of advancing individual skill development and catalysing innovation-led economic growth in the region. As part of this collaboration, participants who successfully complete the Piscine will be eligible to join 42 Abu Dhabi's accredited program and obtain the Diploma in Software Development, which is delivered full-time at the campus in Abu Dhabi. Additionally, aspiring Emirati entrepreneurs who complete the Piscine and wish to launch their ventures can benefit from KFED's support. Her Excellency Mouza Al Nasri, CEO of Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development, said, "This collaboration between Khalifa Fund and 42 Abu Dhabi represents a pivotal step in nurturing a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship in Al Ain. By combining 42 Abu Dhabi's groundbreaking approach to coding education with Khalifa Fund's comprehensive support for startups, we aim to empower individuals with the requisite skills and resources to transform ideas into impactful ventures. Together, we are fostering a thriving ecosystem where talent meets opportunity, driving sustainable growth and reinforcing Abu Dhabi and the UAE's position as a global leader in innovation and entrepreneurship." Khalifa Fund and 42 Abu Dhabi will continue collaborating through a range of initiatives designed to empower talents and accelerate venture creation. This includes building a seamless talent-to-startup pipeline, offering internship and employment pathways, and co-hosting community events, networking mixers, and demo days. The partnership will also include joint mentorship and training programs, equipping coders and entrepreneurs alike with the tools to materialise their ideas past conceptualisation. Dr. Ahmed Al Shoaibi, Acting CEO of 42 Abu Dhabi, said, "Our partnership with Khalifa Fund to bring the first-ever Piscine to the Al Ain Region is a powerful step toward widening access to innovative coding education and entrepreneurship skills. By hosting our Piscine at Khalifa Fund, Al Ain Campus, we look forward to equipping over 100 participants with in-demand coding skills and nurturing the entrepreneurial mindset needed to drive real impact within the local ecosystem. This initiative reflects 42 Abu Dhabi's continued commitment to empowering talent across the UAE and building a robust pipeline of innovators who will contribute to the Emirate's digital transformation."
Mid East Info
09-07-2025
- Business
- Mid East Info
Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development and 42 Abu Dhabi partner to host inaugural coding bootcamp ‘Piscine' in Al Ain Region
Abu Dhabi, July 2025: Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development KFED partnered with 42 Abu Dhabi 42AD to host the first edition of the intensive coding bootcamp, the 'Piscine,' at Khalifa Fund Al Ain Region Campus. Running between July 14 to August 7, 2025, the collaboration is part of joint efforts to empower young talents and prepare a new generation of coders and entrepreneurs. The Piscine is an intense and immersive bootcamp designed to equip participants with foundational coding capabilities while challenging their adaptability, problem-solving abilities, and collaboration skills. This program offers a unique opportunity for individuals, regardless of their background or prior coding experience, to build in-demand digital skills through a hands-on, peer-to-peer learning model. The bootcamp will train 100 participants with essential coding and AI skills. With the support of Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development, individuals from various backgrounds, including those looking to enhance their digital skills or shift into tech-focused careers, will be empowered to build new coding capabilities and actively contribute to the growing digital ecosystem. This aligns with KFED's broader vision of advancing individual skill development and catalysing innovation-led economic growth in the region. As part of this collaboration, participants who successfully complete the Piscine will be eligible to join 42 Abu Dhabi's accredited program and obtain the Diploma in Software Development, which is delivered full-time at the campus in Abu Dhabi. Additionally, aspiring Emirati entrepreneurs who complete the Piscine and wish to launch their ventures can benefit from KFED's support. Her Excellency Mouza Al Nasri, CEO of Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development, said: 'This collaboration between Khalifa Fund and 42 Abu Dhabi represents a pivotal step in nurturing a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship in Al Ain. By combining 42 Abu Dhabi's groundbreaking approach to coding education with Khalifa Fund's comprehensive support for startups, we aim to empower individuals with the requisite skills and resources to transform ideas into impactful ventures. Together, we are fostering a thriving ecosystem where talent meets opportunity, driving sustainable growth and reinforcing Abu Dhabi and the UAE's position as a global leader in innovation and entrepreneurship.' Khalifa Fund and 42 Abu Dhabi will continue collaborating through a range of initiatives designed to empower talents and accelerate venture creation. This includes building a seamless talent-to-startup pipeline, offering internship and employment pathways, and co-hosting community events, networking mixers, and demo days. The partnership will also include joint mentorship and training programs, equipping coders and entrepreneurs alike with the tools to materialise their ideas past conceptualisation. Dr. Ahmed Al Shoaibi, Acting CEO of 42 Abu Dhabi, said: 'Our partnership with Khalifa Fund to bring the first-ever Piscine to the Al Ain Region is a powerful step toward widening access to innovative coding education and entrepreneurship skills. By hosting our Piscine at Khalifa Fund, Al Ain Campus, we look forward to equipping over 100 participants with in-demand coding skills and nurturing the entrepreneurial mindset needed to drive real impact within the local ecosystem. This initiative reflects 42 Abu Dhabi's continued commitment to empowering talent across the UAE and building a robust pipeline of innovators who will contribute to the Emirate's digital transformation.' Potential applicants who are interested in joining the upcoming 'Piscine' can visit 42 Abu Dhabi's official website, where they will have to complete 42 Abu Dhabi's pre-selection 'Game' – an online assessment that evaluates cognitive capacity via logic and memory tests. Following this, they will attend an in-person check-in discovery session to be briefed on the Piscine and the learning methodology. Once candidates successfully complete the Piscine, they will be eligible to join the accredited Diploma in Software Development program offered at 42 Abu Dhabi's campus in Abu Dhabi.
