Hands-on workshops introduce students to autonomous systems, conversational AI and responsible technology use, beginning with GEMS World Academy Dubai.
Yango Group has launched an educational initiative to introduce schoolchildren across the UAE to artificial intelligence (AI) and autonomous technologies, combining classroom learning with practical demonstrations. The programme began at GEMS World Academy Dubai, where around 50 students aged 10–12 took part in an interactive workshop led by the company’s technology specialists.
The initiative reflects a growing need to equip younger generations with an understanding of how AI systems work, how they make decisions and where their limitations lie. Rather than focusing only on technology use, the sessions encouraged students to examine the underlying processes and consider how emerging technologies can address real-world challenges.
“By connecting students with the people behind the technology, we hope to encourage curiosity, critical thinking and a new generation of young innovators.”
— Islam Abdul Karim, Regional Head, Yango Group Middle East
The robotics session introduced students to the role of sensors and navigation software in autonomous systems. Using Yango Group’s autonomous delivery robot as an example, participants explored how robots detect obstacles, plan routes and respond to changing environments. The discussion also highlighted the importance of human oversight when deploying autonomous technologies in everyday settings.
A separate session focused on conversational AI through Yango Yasmina, the company’s bilingual Arabic- and English-speaking AI assistant. Students explored how voice assistants process spoken requests and generate responses. They also experimented with different ways of framing questions, learning how prompts influence AI-generated answers and why information must be verified.
Beyond technical awareness, the programme aims to develop critical thinking, problem-solving and responsible technology habits. By examining both the capabilities and limitations of AI, students were encouraged to think about its potential applications in their schools, communities and daily lives.
“ As AI becomes part of everyday life, it’s important for young people to understand not only how to use technology, but also how it works, where its limitations lie and why human judgement matters,” said Islam Abdul Karim, Regional Head, Yango Group Middle East. He added that the company wants to bring the practical knowledge of its technology specialists into classrooms and encourage a new generation of innovators.
The initiative aligns with the UAE’s broader push to strengthen AI education, including the introduction of artificial intelligence into public school curricula and priorities outlined in Dubai’s Universal Blueprint for Artificial Intelligence.
For GEMS World Academy, the programme offered students an opportunity to move beyond passive technology consumption. “We want our students to be more than users of emerging technology. We want them to understand it, question it and ultimately help shape its future,” said Khalid Mahmoud, Director of Innovation at GEMS World Academy Dubai. He said the workshop connected classroom learning with real-world applications while reinforcing responsible technology use.
Yango Group said the GEMS World Academy workshop is the first step in a wider effort to make AI and robotics education accessible to more students across the UAE. The company is inviting other schools and educational institutions to explore similar collaborations.
