(MENAFN- Gulf Times) Stars of Science, the number one Arabic reality TV show driving interest in science and innovation among Arab youth, returns tomorrow for a ninth season, Qatar Foundation (QF) announced yesterday.
The QF science initiative goes to the limit to find, mentor, and enable the finest young innovators in the Arab region today. And an all-new jury line up and special appearances by popular alumni promises to keep viewers on the edge of their seats.
Stars of Science sees ambitious candidates develop innovations that will help improve lives and benefit communities.
While dreamers and doers will compete to make their mark through science and innovation, their adventure can last only if they impress the jury and convince their audiences.
It's a competition of brain over brawn, resilience over strength, with only one candidate crowned the Arab world's top innovator at the end of a gruelling 10-week season.
Success in Stars of Science does not come easy. Thousands of hopefuls come out swinging for a spot on the show, and the extraordinary opportunity is not just sought by the geeky.
The show has seen them all — the adventurers, the philosophers, and the money-makers. But they do have one thing in common though: a passion for problem-solving that's larger than life.
Four finalists will survive elimination rounds for a share of a cash prize of $600,000, ranked by jury and public online votes in the final week of airing.
Khalifa al-Kubaisi, head of press office, QF, said: 'The objective of Stars of Science is to bring about positive change. It serves as an accelerator for developing new products that benefit the communities we live in. Building innovation capabilities in the Arab world is very much needed. The TV show offers a thought-provoking glimpse into amazing talents, pushing boundaries to make that happen.
'They are bold and brave, but we also see them struggle with setbacks and obstacles. By encouraging young Arabs to become science and technology problem-solvers, we cultivate a culture of innovation and progress.
Throughout the season, Stars of Science innovators must satisfy a three-member jury to avoid elimination.
Professor Fouad Mrad returns, as does Professor Adbelhamid El-Zoheiry. The new addition, Dr Khalid M al-Ali promises to bring a laser sharp focus to the group.
Professor Mrad said: 'Stars of Science has developed into a powerful platform to supercharge innovative ideas and transform them into cutting-edge products. The show has been instrumental in shedding light on the endless possibilities of science in everyday life.
'The number of young Arabs filing for patents, starting businesses, and developing new products after participating on the show is testimony to this. They have set the bar high, so the new batch of innovators better roll up their sleeves. I'm planning to disturb their calm seas and excite their spirit. No doubt the magnificent professor Zoheiry and first-time juror Dr al-Ali will throw in a few surprises of their own.
Stars of Science features 10 fast-paced episodes that challenge all innovators to outperform their fellow competitors. Episodes are grouped into four rounds: casting, prototyping, customer validation, and the finale.
The winner, determined by a combination of jury and public online voting, receives $300,000 in funding for their groundbreaking idea, while finalists in second, third, and fourth places will be awarded $150,000, $100,000, and $50,000, respectively.
Stars of Science has a strong track record of empowering pan-Arab innovators and problem-solvers, catapulting brilliant ideas into successful projects and businesses.
The show equips innovators with the knowledge and skills to become the entrepreneurs, researchers, and scientists of the future.
Since launching in 2008, Stars of Science alumni have raised $14,545,918 independently through revenues, venture capital, and research grants. They have established more than 19 businesses around the region and have volunteered their time to encourage and inspire tens of thousands of Arab youth across the region.
Stars of Science alumni have also been involved in workshops, talks, and community building activities that include maker spaces, schools, and travelling fabrication laboratories.
The show will be aired on different TV channels across the region. A full broadcast guide is available on www.starsofscience.com
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