Dubai: The Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE) is excited to introduce a groundbreaking initiative to revolutionise education in the United Arab Emirates. The Minecraft Education Challenge, a part of the ‘Education through Gaming’ program by Dubai Esports and Games Festival (DEF), seeks to inspire and engage students by offering a fun and innovative approach to learning.
Taking place at the Dubai Exhibition Centre, World Expo from 21st to 25th June 2023, the event will begin with education days on 21st and 22nd June 2023, followed by the Minecraft Education Challenge finals, which will be broadcasted live from GameExpo on 22nd June 2023. Students aged 7 and above will compete in teams of three during the Minecraft Education Challenge qualifiers, held in registered schools between May and June of 2023. The ultimate goal is to reach the final and secure victory. The thrilling finals will be broadcasted live from GameExpo on 22nd June 2023.
DFRE aims to promote gaming and esports as valuable tools for enhancing education and as potential employment channels. Recognizing the significant potential that gaming holds in supporting Dubai’s economic growth, DFRE is dedicated to spearheading innovative initiatives and campaigns. The DEF Minecraft Education Challenge provides an unparalleled opportunity for UAE schools and students to experience the benefits of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) learning while showcasing the vast array of options within the gaming and esports industry.
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Minecraft, a popular game globally, especially in the UAE, boasts a substantial following among players of all ages. The DEF Minecraft Education program enables teachers to incorporate the game into their classrooms, enhancing creativity, problem-solving skills, communication, and teamwork. With an impressive monthly average of 110,000 users and an average playtime of 124 minutes per day, Minecraft Education serves as a powerful Edtech platform, facilitating the development of the next generation of eLearners.
Through the DEF Minecraft Education Challenge, students will embark on a unique journey that combines learning and gaming in a fun and engaging manner. Participants will be immersed in a Scavenger Hunt Challenge within a custom-made, Dubai-inspired Pirate Cove Bay map, where they will search for falcon eggs. With an integrated focus on STEM learning and objective-based tasks, the DEF Minecraft Education Challenge aims to showcase the positive impact gaming can have on student learning and overall development.
Mr. Ahmed Al Khaja, CEO of Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), stated that,“We are proud to support Dubai’s economic growth through innovative initiatives and campaigns such as the DEF Education through Gaming programme, part of Dubai Esports and Games Festival (DEF)’s second edition. Gaming can be a powerful tool for education and skill building, and we are pleased to be at the forefront of this movement in the UAE. We invite all schools and students to participate in this programme and shape the future of education in Dubai. Join us in fostering growth and learning through gaming by registering your interest today.”
Dubai Esports and Games Festival remains committed to its ongoing efforts in promoting education through gaming in the UAE. This initiative opens new doors to educational experiences, demonstrating the endless possibilities that lie at the intersection of gaming, technology, and learning by harnessing the power of gaming.