Drones Course To Be Taught In Dubai Schools

The UAE has implemented restrictions on flying drones, but schools in Dubai are introducing a new Drones Education Programme.

The drone programme is to be implemented initially by two GEMS Education schools. They will soon be joined by all schools in Dubai however, with the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA) aiming to introduce the programme across the emirate.

Jumeirah College and Dubai American Academy are the first two schools to implement this programme.

The minimum age for granting official permits to fly drones outdoor is 16 years. However, an educational permit will be introduced where students will be allowed to use facilities at specific times, in the presence of a commercially qualified pilot. Michael Gernon, senior vice-president, global head of innovation, research and development at GEMS Education, told Khaleej Times:

"There is a current and future need to train not only drone pilots, but solution experts and engineers. Bringing a new perspective into academics and learning, incorporating drones in education can help motivate students to put their curiosity into good use, in addition to the rich educational environment it can provide."

"The programme will help equip students with vital cross curricular skills required to encourage problem-solving and analytical thinking in real-world scenarios."

The drones programme will be available for middle and high school students. They will be able to learn the programming, stable flight with small drones and build dummy projects.

The curriculum of this course will involve a ground school, which will teach students about flight theory, safety and regulations of drones. The course will also have simulator and flight training.

Once the programme is rolled out, there are plans of holding competitions that will involve racing leagues, real world situations using drones and internship opportunities.

^{Video Source: NPro+ Aerial Productions, Vimeo}