MechaMinds: AUS student-led workshop empowering underprivileged youth in STEM

In an initiative led by American University of Sharjah (AUS) students, the MechaMinds workshop emerges as an opportunity for underprivileged youth striving to access Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education. Going beyond traditional learning paradigms, it offers hands-on experiences in coding and constructing LEGO EV3 robots, nurturing teamwork and problem-solving skills among participants.

Supported by the AUS Department of Electrical Engineering, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Community Service and Outreach office, this new program is tailored for underprivileged students nominated by the Big Heart Foundation and Al Rawafed Learning Center, welcoming over 15 students aged 13 to 17.

Safwan Khan, Vice President of the IEEE-Eta Kappa Nu AUS Honor Society and founder of the program, collaborated with fellow student Ibraheem Kanan, President of Pi Tau Sigma AUS Honor Society, who served as an instructor and co-organizer, to organize the program. The organizers accredited the dedication of AUS College of Engineering students Ahmad Mansour, lead instructor, and Omar Shaghnoubi, lead volunteer, for the program’s success. They also highlighted the importance of their dedicated student volunteers, including Amr Ghassan Abu AlHaj, Sana Al Saman, Ahmed Hisham, Abdelrahman Hamzeh, Hamdan Ali Alhadhrami, Mark Farag, Mohamad Dabbagh, Tasneem Asskoul, Khadijah Ali and Maria Boxwala, for their crucial roles in ensuring its smooth operation.

"I launched MechaMinds to align with His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum's visionary goals of enhancing UAE’s global reputation in future technologies. Our program aims to cultivate STEM proficiency among Sharjah's youth, fostering innovation and driving economic growth in the region," said Khan.

Kanan emphasized the program's impact on participants, stating: "MechaMinds provides a remarkable opportunity for students with limited access to resources to gain a comprehensive glimpse into the diverse realm of robotics."

Looking ahead, Khan envisions continued growth and enhancement for MechaMinds, with plans to incorporate more advanced equipment, extend workshop duration and collaborate with international funding sources.

As AUS College of Engineering students continue to lead initiatives like MechaMinds, their commitment to shaping future STEM leaders ensures a brighter future for all. Learn more about the college at www.aus.edu/cen.