EStars and ADEK Host Multi-Day Hackathon at Yas Creative Hub
From the 6th to the 14th of May, EStars, in partnership with the Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK), hosted an exciting multi-day hackathon at the Yas Creative Hub. Designed to challenge assumptions and ignite innovation, the hackathon brought together bright young minds to tackle a powerful idea:
“Breaking the Myth: Esports is More Than Just Gaming.”
Students Pitch Bold New Concepts
Over the course of six days, students from schools across Abu Dhabi worked in teams to develop and pitch original product concepts that would help reshape how esports is perceived.
Mentorship from 42 Abu Dhabi
Guided by mentors from 42 Abu Dhabi, students delved into the world of esports, collaboratively researching and creating. The mentors assisted students in using AI responsibly to support creative exploration, articulate their visions, and bring their projects to life with real-world relevance and technical insight.
From Career Apps to Digital Wellbeing
Students came up with amazing ideas—from esports career-matching websites and apps that guide users to explore possible pathways, to AI coaching and wellbeing tools that promote inclusion and digital wellbeing in esports. Their ideas reflected the deeper value of esports and its global potential.
Developing 21st Century Skills
The challenge encouraged students to consider what vital skills esports helps develop—such as critical thinking, research and dissemination, and most importantly, communication and collaboration.
Presenting Their Vision
Each team concluded the experience by delivering a compelling presentation of their concept. It was a privilege to watch the students proudly present their ideas to their peers and hackathon judges. The students truly exceeded expectations in their concepts, proving that today’s students are ready to shape tomorrow’s esports landscape.
Experiencing Yas Creative Hub
The event also gave the students and teachers an insight into the amazing facilities available at the Yas Creative Hub—from soundbooths and greenscreen rooms, to podcast studios and collaborative working spaces. Yas Creative has facilities to cater to all educational needs. EStars is extremely grateful for the opportunity to share this with the visiting schools.
Bringing Esports into Real-World Learning
EStars is committed to preparing students for the future through hands-on, meaningful learning opportunities that connect classroom knowledge with the evolving world around them. If you think your school would be interested in a visit to the Yas Creative Hub, please reach out to EStars below:
Student and Educator Reflections
“The Hackathon benefitted our students well, it really helped them sharpen their 21st Century skills, skills that are needed in the workforce.”
— Jeremy Johnson, Headteacher, Al Majd School
“I came here knowing nothing about esports, we learned about being healthy in esports, teams, tournaments and more. I am leaving here now knowing so much.”
— Khalifa, School student
Further Reading:
- EStars Inspires the Next Generation of Esports Enthusiasts
- THE EStars CLASSROOM OF THE FUTURE
- Step Into the World of Esports With The EStars Certificates
- Powering Esports in the UAE – How EStars is Revolutionising Talent Acquisition in Esports