Stars of Science innovations prove popular with audiences
Oct 30th 2017 – Stars of Science innovations have sparked a groundswell of activity on the show’s social media channels, driving interest in science and technology around the Arab world as the program enters this season’s seventh week. Since launching season 8, the show has been receiving positive feedback and words of encouragement for highlighting that given the right tools, support and environment, Arab innovators can thrive.
Stars of Science inspires the next generation of problem solvers across the Arab world by introducing young people to innovation and entrepreneurship. Over its seven seasons, Qatar Foundation’s flagship ‘edutainment’ reality TV show has encouraged thousands to discover science and technology. The show has been the starting point for dozens of impactful inventions as well as the accelerator for the careers of many Arab entrepreneurs. Alumni of Stars of Science have incorporated 21 companies and raised over nine million dollars in funding to support the development of their projects.
In yesterday’s final prototyping episode, Sevag Babikan of Lebanon, Saif Al Farai of Oman and Yazi Alalo of Syria presented their innovations, designed to solve real life problems. For Yazi, a pharmaceuticals graduate and new mother, family safety is top of mind. Her project, “foodi,” aimed to take the guesswork out of knowing whether fish was suitable for human consumption. Her invention offers an indicator aimed to facilitate food safety, and also reduce food waste.
Meanwhile, Saif is motivated to use his mechatronics skills in order to expand the amount of Arabic written material available to the blind and visually impaired. “Baseer,” his invention, reads Arabic text using special technology and instantly converts it to Braille, opening up a whole world of literature that previously was inaccessible to a wide range of people.
Sevag, a mechanical engineer, wants to revolutionize the world of 3D printing with “modifix.” The device could be a breakthrough for the industry because it streamlines the way 3D printers make complicated structures, resulting in faster, more innovative 3D printing.
Following a heated debate - Sevag pulled ahead of his two rivals, garnering top marks with Yazi falling short behind Saif. The Syrian pharmacist will not be forgotten by her many fans who got to know the hard working mum and her daughter Emma.
“I am used to encountering adversity,” said Yazi after the episode. “Stars of Science has been an experience that rewards perseverance, hard work and dedication to your craft. If anything, despite my elimination, participating in the show has given me new doses of motivation to continue my work and tackle challenges that all families face, like food safety. I will always look back on my time with Stars of Science with pride and endless gratitude for Qatar Foundation giving us this once in a lifetime opportunity to learn and grow as innovators, scientists and entrepreneurs.”
On Saturday, November 5th, Ahmad Elkhatat, Sevag Babikan and Ghassan Yousef will compete for two finalist spots during the customer validation episode. On November 12th, Abderrahim Bourouis, Saif Al Farai and Sadeem Qdaisat will try to avoid elimination as the two remaining finalists will be determined. The final four innovators will earn a share of a $600,000 prize based on jury and online public voting in the finale episode.
