Samsung Electronics and PC Magazine launch 2008 PC Magazine Technology Challenge

The computer science and technology trivia challenge will gather 50 competing schools to a fun and interactive activity to promote the development and education of the country's next generation of technology users.

Fully supported by platinum sponsor Samsung Electronics and key sponsor Canon, the event will accept two nominated teams from each participating school, comprised of students aged from 8 to 12 years old.

The Challenge will consist of three rounds of technology trivia on computer history, basic technology concepts, computer technologies, internet basics, and general knowledge.

The three teams garnering the highest scores at the end of the three rounds will proceed to a final round to determine the final ranking and the overall champion. Cash prizes will be awarded to all three final-round contenders.

"Human capital development is vital to ensuring the formation of a prepared workforce that will contribute to sustainable economic growth. This unique competition seeks to initiate development at the grass roots, by encouraging young students to gain both a deep appreciation and basic knowledge of key technologies and technological trends. These children will soon become the new users of technology; they should be both capable and eager to acquire technologically-oriented skills," said Bud Keegan, General Manager, PC Magazine.

The competition is open to UAE school students, with light refreshments to be served and lucky door prizes to be raffled off.

"We intend the PC Magazine Technology Challenge to be a well-patronized and highly awaited event that will inspire the country's future computer scientists and technology developers and implementers. The UAE currently leads the Middle East in computer and internet use, so its technology users should likewise lead the region in technological ability and innovation. Young students have the perfect mindset when it comes to knowledge acquisition, since they are inquisitive and enthusiastic; this competition will capitalize on this youthful exuberance to mould tomorrow's leading technology users," concluded Kylie Meagher, Associate Publisher, PC Magazine.