GEMS Education has launched a new Esports and Game Design Academy, a pioneering initiative aimed at encouraging the next generation of esports talent across all GEMS schools, with a rollout planned for September 2024. This centrally managed academy will offer a scholarship prize fund, providing students with exceptional opportunities in the rapidly growing fields of competitive gaming and game design, while also ensuring the holistic development of each participating child.
The initiative aligns with the UAE's broader strategy to position the country as a global hub for gaming and esports. This strategy, launched by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Dubai Future Foundation, is spearheaded by the Dubai Future Foundation and aims to create a US$1 billion ecosystem and 30,000 jobs by 2033.
Sunny Varkey, Group Chairman of GEMS Global and Founder of the Varkey Foundation and GEMS Education said, "The launch of our Esports and Game Design Academy is a testament to our commitment to providing students with opportunities to engage in leading industries. Esports is more than just gaming; it’s about developing critical thinking, teamwork, and leadership skills. Students are able to create 2D and 3D games from a young age, and we will provide access to industry-level game design learning. We look forward to discovering the next generation of esports talent – who may even go on to one day compete at the Olympics."
What Is The Core Purpose Of The Esports and Game Design Academy
- The GEMS Esports and Game Design Academy aims to create safe and engaging environments for students through carefully selected age-appropriate games, ensuring a positive learning experience. It focusses on fostering holistic student development by enhancing personal, social, and cognitive skills.
- The academy offers a structured platform that includes learning materials, opportunities for league participation, competitions, hackathons, and the pursuit of accreditations and qualifications in esports and game design.
- Students will have the chance to explore diverse career paths within the gaming industry and seek university opportunities relevant to esports and game design. Each GEMS school will establish staff esport leads, and student ambassadors and leadership groups, emphasising the principles of 'gaming for good' throughout the educational journey.
Baz Nijjar, Principal Advisor, Education Technology at GEMS Education and who is a member of the government-backed Dubai Program for Gaming 2033 Working Group, said, "Our approach to esports and game design places GEMS Education at the forefront of educational innovation in the region. The Esports and Game Design Academy is not just about fostering gaming talent; it’s about creating a dynamic learning environment where students can thrive, develop essential holistic skills, and prepare and adapt for the future with skills."
GEMS Education has built a four-year history of promoting esports and game design, offering students exceptional opportunities in this field. GEMS introduced the Middle East's first K-12 qualifications in esports and game design, with students and staff earning accreditations from industry leaders like Unreal Engine and Unity.
In recent years, GEMS students have achieved notable success in various interschool, regional, and global gaming competitions and tournaments. They have excelled in popular titles such as Minecraft, Rocket League, and Fortnite.