GEMS International School Al Khail (GIS) has launched a state-of-the-art Space Lab, inaugurated by UAE astronauts Nora AlMatrooshi and Mohammad AlMulla from the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre, along with Her Excellency Dr. Aisha Miran, Director General of Dubai’s Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA). This cutting-edge facility is part of GEMS Education’s Centre of Excellence for Aviation, Aeronautics, and Space at GIS, designed to simulate a Mars space capsule. Its goal is to empower students to innovate and create technology and futuristic concepts rather than just consuming them.
Simon Herbert, Head of School/CEO, GEMS International School Al Khail, said, “What an absolute honour to welcome astronauts Ms Nora and Mr Mohammed today for the opening of our Space Lab. This is an exciting day for GIS, and we thank the GEMS Education leadership for their support in the growth of our facilities".
“We shall work in partnership with many other schools in Dubai on the integration of aviation, aeronautics, and space as part of a progressive and dynamic curriculum. The day was made extra special with the presence of Her Excellency Dr Aisha Miran, Director General of the KHDA, and Dr Saima Rana, Group Chief Education Officer of GEMS Education", he further added.
The school's Space Lab inauguration featured a ribbon-cutting ceremony led by UAE astronauts Nora AlMatrooshi, the first Emirati and Arab female astronaut, and Mohammad AlMulla. They are part of the second cohort of the UAE Astronaut Programme administered by the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre.
The learning experience in GIS Space Lab encompasses a wide range of topics, including Mars agriculture (hydroponics and AI), 3D game design for social interaction in the metaverse, AI-powered robotic pets for Mars, autonomous vehicles for Martian transportation, DIY space maintenance, as well as robotic arms, wearable haptics, and gesture controls for space operations. With this innovative facility, GIS distinguishes itself as the sole global school offering such a comprehensive array of design courses, spanning Product Design, Digital Design/UI/UX, Food Design, Fashion Design, STEM Aviation, and now Space Lab.
Vikas Singh, Head of Secondary Design and Director of the Centre of Excellence for Aviation, Aeronautics, and Space at GEMS International School – Al Khail, said, “Today marks a significant milestone in our commitment to pushing the boundaries of education and innovation. The launch of the GIS Space Lab is not just about exploring the vastness of space; it’s also about igniting the spark of curiosity in our students, equipping them with the skills to solve real-world Mars problems, and preparing them to be the pioneers of tomorrow. GIS is proud to offer a unique and diverse set of course options that empower our students to dream big and achieve the extraordinary. After all, our students are our future leaders who will shape a better world for humanity on Mars”.
