A collaboration between Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation and Abu Dhabi’s Advanced Technology Research Council aims to strengthen early identification of high-potential students.

Around 50 students participating in the TALENTiFY programme in Abu Dhabi have undergone giftedness assessments as part of a national collaboration focused on identifying and developing young talent.

The assessments were conducted by the Hamdan Centre for Giftedness and Innovation, part of the Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation for Medical and Educational Sciences, in cooperation with the Advanced Technology Research Council (ATRC).

The initiative is designed to support the early identification of students with advanced abilities and help create pathways for them to further develop their potential.

Using scientific tools to identify talent

The assessment process included the Hamdan Giftedness Test, a scientific assessment tool developed by the Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation to help identify gifted students.

It was administered alongside other assessments within the Foundation’s Student Talent Identification Program, providing indicators of students’ potential and capabilities across different areas.

Early identification can allow educators and families to better understand a student’s strengths and provide appropriate opportunities for development, particularly in areas where specialised support or enrichment may be beneficial.

The initiative also forms part of the Foundation’s broader efforts to expand the use of scientifically developed tools for gifted student identification and strengthen cooperation with national organisations working in human capital development.

Bringing families and specialists into the conversation

Alongside the assessments, the Hamdan Centre for Giftedness and Innovation held an interactive session for specialists and parents.

The session introduced participants to the methodology behind the Hamdan Giftedness Test and explained the objectives of the Student Talent Identification Program. It also highlighted the role families and educational institutions can play in creating environments where gifted students can develop their abilities.

H.E. Dr. Khalifa Ali Al Suwaidi, Executive Director of Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation for Medical and Educational Sciences, said that early identification provides an important foundation for developing sustained pathways for gifted students.

He emphasised the importance of reliable scientific tools and partnerships between national institutions in expanding opportunities for talented young people.

Building the next generation of innovators

For ATRC, the partnership also connects gifted education with the UAE’s ambitions in science, technology and artificial intelligence.

H.E. Shahab Issa Abu Shahab, Director General of ATRC, said empowering young national talent is central to the council’s mission and highlighted its focus on programmes that enable students to explore their potential in science and advanced technology.

The collaboration reflects a broader emphasis on developing a pipeline of young innovators and researchers who can contribute to the UAE’s future technology economy.

As the country continues to invest in education, innovation and human capital, initiatives that identify promising abilities at an early stage could play an increasingly important role in helping students move from potential to specialised skills and, eventually, professional contribution.

The Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation, through its Hamdan Centre for Giftedness and Innovation, continues to develop programmes focused on gifted student identification, excellence and innovation across the UAE.