Today, during a finale ceremony held at the Jeddah Science and Technology Center, the winners of the 9th Annual Al Baik Coca-Cola Young Scientists Competition were announced at a fun event for the participants and their families. Over 250 inventions were presented by Saudi students from more than 35 private and public schools.
Twelve year old Makiah Sutardi from the Global International School in Jeddah was awarded the grand prize by the judging committee for her invention of the Bio Gas. The judges' vote was unanimous and the committee praised her skill, style and interview manner for the unique invention. Makiah will be attending a special trip to Dubai as a volunteer in the Children’s Museum and will also be awarded a cheque for SR 5,000 upon her return.
Winners of the three categories for the 9th Annual Al Baik Coca-Cola Young Scientists Competition were as follows:
Third Place Runners-up, each receiving a state-of the-art electronic dictionary and an English Language Course:
1. Omar Ahmed Bakhashwain, from Jeel Al Faisal Elementary School for his invention of an Electronic Grill.
2. Ismail Ibrahim Alawai, from Qurtubah Private School (Middle School) for his invention of gas tank.
3. Abbas Mohamed Al Shabrawishi, from Ayn Gallout High School for his invention of an electronic umbrella.
Second Place Runners-up each receiving a Intel P IV Computer:
1. Alfaisal Ibrahim Abdullah Al Humaid, from Al Riyadh Model Elementary School for his invention of magnetic helpers.
2. Ahmed Haris Ahmed Bakhashwain, from Al Aqsa Private School (Middle School) for his invention of a developed Car Kit.
3. Waleed Abdulkarim Ahmed Felemban, from Al Safwa High School for his invention of a watch for those with special needs.
First Place Runners-up each receiving an Intel P IV laptop:
1. Bashayer Ali Bajrai, from the 72nd Elementary School for her invention of the smart grill.
2. Abdulrahman Ibrahim Hussein, from Riyad Al Quran Private School (Middle School) for his invention of a machine for utilization of dew drops.
3. Tareq Lutfallah Mohamed Turkestani, from Al Salamah Educational Complex – High School for his invention of a system to cut off water after the water station fills.
“This year's entries show a distinct increase, both in number and quality, and it is evident that our students are really putting in every effort and utilizing ever-more innovative methods to show their creativity in the world of science and inventions,” stated Eng. Rami Abu-Ghazaleh, CEO of Al Baik Food Systems Ltd. “We are very proud of all those who participated and we look forward to seeing more students take part in this enterprise to identify great inventions for the benefit of ‘Saving Our Resources”.
Amr Heiba, National Operations Manager of Coca-Cola Bottling Company of Saudi Arabia, commented: “The Young Scientists Program stems from a deep and fundamental belief Coca-Cola has in the importance of investing in the youth and providing them with opportunities for them to realize their intellectual capabilities and potential".
During the finale ceremony parents, students and teachers alike waited eagerly to hear the announcement of the winners that came at the end of the event celebration, which kicked off with fun activities for children followed by the arrival of the guest of honor Mr. Abdullah Al Huwaimel, General Director of the Makkah Al Mukarramh Region’s Ministry of Education, and a tour of the inventions gallery. Also attending were the competition supervisory teachers, members of the Ministry of Education – Western Region and the judging committee. After the tour a special presentation on the Al Baik Coca-Cola Young Scientists Competition was presented, featuring the achievements and development from inception nine years ago to date.
Prior to the announcement of this year's winners, a special segment was devoted to recognition of distinguished participants, which included select teachers, schools and the judging committee comprised of King Abdulaziz University professors, officials from the Ministry of Education, and Jeddah Science and Technology Centre officials, who were praised and thanked for their efforts, dedication and hard work in supporting the students' endeavours to succeed and excel.
This year Prince Faisal bin Fahad Middle School was awarded a check worth SR 10,000 for the purchase of scientific school equipment and supplies for having the highest number of participating students in the 9th Annual Al Baik Coca-Cola Young Scientists Competition and the Ideal Teacher award was given to Mr. Fahad Jarrallah Al Harithi from the same school.
The Young Scientists competition is an annual educational program created and organized in full by Al Baik and Coca Cola in cooperation with the Ministry of Education and the Jeddah Science and Technology Center. It is an innovative learning program geared towards encouraging students from across the Kingdom to develop creative and intellectual skills.
