More than 133 young innovators from UAE schools tackle real-world challenges at AUS School Computing Competition

A spirit of determination and ingenuity defined this year’s School Computing Competition at American University of Sharjah (AUS), which recorded the highest number of participants since the competition’s inception. A total of 133 students from 28 schools across the UAE came together to put their coding, problem-solving and innovation skills to the test. 

Organized by the AUS Department of Computer Science and Engineering, in collaboration with the Office of Enrollment Management’s Sharakah Program, the competition challenged students to solve programming problems under timed conditions, develop real-time artificial intelligence solutions, and design mobile and Internet of Things (IoT) applications with practical, real-world relevance.

Throughout the day, students engaged in complex coding tasks, applied machine learning techniques, and demonstrated their ability to bring creative technological ideas to life. In the Computer Programming track, teams tackled a series of technical problems onsite, working to produce solutions that were accurate, efficient, robust and user-friendly. In the Python Programming for AI track, participants built real-time machine learning models and presented their findings with clarity and precision. Meanwhile, teams in the Mobile and IoT Applications track showcased projects they had developed prior to the competition, presenting innovative applications and hardware-based solutions designed to address real-world needs.

The event organizers included Dr. Abdul-Rahman Al-Ali, Professor of Computer Science and Engineering, Dr. Tamer Shanableh, Professor of Computer Science and Engineering, and Senior Laboratory Instructor Ahmad Al Nabusli.

"Our goal is to expose students to real-world problems that require critical thinking, collaboration, and creativity under pressure," said Dr. Al-Ali. "The competition is designed to test their technical knowledge while pushing them to think differently, adapt quickly and innovate. We are proud to see such a high level of talent and enthusiasm among this year's participants."

Dr. Shanableh added: “The AUS School Computing Competition is an exciting opportunity for high school students to showcase their talents in coding, AI and smart technologies. In a world where coding is quickly becoming the language of the future, this competition challenges young minds through hands-on problem solving and innovation, aiming to inspire the next generation of tech leaders and spark early interest in computer science and engineering.”

For many students, the competition became a transformative experience—one that revealed hidden strengths and opened up new perspectives. Abdullah Juma, a Grade 12 student from Dubai National School, Al Twar, who competed in the Computer Programming track, shared how the experience challenged and inspired him.

"Participating in the AUS School Computing Competition was an exciting and rewarding experience," he said. "It challenged me to think critically, solve problems quickly and work effectively with my team under pressure. I learned a lot about coding, teamwork and time management, while also gaining confidence in my skills. Overall, it was a great opportunity to grow, learn new things and enjoy a competitive environment."

The AUS Department of Computer Science and Engineering is committed to nurturing the next generation of tech leaders. Offering comprehensive bachelor's and master's programs, the department is dedicated to providing students with the knowledge and skills essential for success in today's rapidly evolving technology landscape. To learn more about its offerings, click here.