Siemens provides science experiment kits to UAE schools to boost sustainability education

The Siemens Green Box experiment kit, which is to be provided to 25 schools across the UAE, is an educational tool aimed at increasing students’ knowledge of energy production and usage. The kit encourages children aged between 8 and 12 to consider the importance of sustainability for the Middle East’s energy future.

The kit includes a series of experiments that are designed to bring an element of fun to the educational experience, focusing on aspects of renewable energy, recycling and energy efficiency. It also provides information on how individual efforts to conserve energy can have a significant positive impact.

“The Green Box initiative is an excellent opportunity for us to help educate young students on the importance of sustainability and efficient energy use,” said Kay Zwingenberger, CEO of Siemens in the United Arab Emirates. “There are challenges that the Middle East region will undoubtedly need to overcome, and enhancing knowledge is the key to solving them. Education is a core focus for Siemens, and it is through initiatives like this that we are able to inspire young generations to become the scientists and innovative thinkers of the future.”

“Partnering with Siemens for the Green Box initiative is an important part of our approach to engage proactively with private sector companies,” said Noura Saif Al Muhairi, the Principal of Umm Suqeim Model School, Dubai. “This gives our students a unique insight into the work of innovative multinational firms like Siemens, and also an opportunity to broaden their educational experience from external influences.”

“With the Siemens Green Box initiative, our students are encouraged to consider the energy challenges facing the Middle East region, which will play a significant role in our future,” Al Muhairi added.

Siemens has successfully launched a series of similar educational initiatives across the Middle East, including experiment kit-based programs in Egypt, Saudi Arabia and Oman. The company’s prestigious Student Award, now in its second year, also challenges university students in the Middle East to develop solutions to real-world challenges affecting the region. Finalists have been shortlisted, and the winners will be announced in the first quarter of 2014.

Siemens AG (Berlin and Munich) is a global powerhouse in electronics and electrical engineering, operating in the fields of industry, energy and healthcare as well as providing infrastructure solutions, primarily for cities and metropolitan areas. For over 165 years, Siemens has stood for technological excellence, innovation, quality, reliability and internationality. The company is the world's largest provider of environmental technologies. Around 40 percent of its total revenue stems from green products and solutions. In fiscal 2012, which ended on September 30, 2012, revenue from continuing operations totaled €78.3 billion and income from continuing operations €5.2 billion. At the end of September 2012, Siemens had around 370,000 employees worldwide on the basis of continuing operations. Further information is available on the Internet at:   www.siemens.com.