DNA50 scientific education exhibition opens in Knowledge Village

The opening was attended by Ahmad bin Bayat, Director Technology and Media Free Zone Authorothy Mr. Simon Collis, HM Consul General to Dubai and the Northern Emirates, Dr. Abdulla Al Karam, Director of Knowledge Village, Dr. Abdul Qader Al Khayat, the guest of honour at the opening, along with representatives of the exhibition organisers, the British Council, and other invited guests.

DNA50 is a unique scientific education exhibition celebrating the 50th anniversary of the discovery of DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid - the chemical of the genes), one of the most important scientific discoveries of the 20th century. The exhibition was created by the British Council and has visited 20 countries during 2003.

Colonel Al Khayat, Director of Forensic Science Administration at Dubai Police, and a PhD in forensic science from the University of Strathclyde, said: "The discovery of the structure of DNA has led to significant changes in our lives and in police forensic work. I am delighted to be participating in DNA50 and congratulate the British Council and Knowledge Village on this initiative. I look forward to the session on Monday when I will make a presentation on the impact of DNA technology on forensic science and criminal investigation."

Jo Maher, Director Operations of the British Council in the UAE, explained the objectives of the exhibition: "Our ultimate aim is to help young people connect with science and technology by focusing on an exciting and significant scientific achievement that is having tangible effects on people's lives in a variety of ways, from genetically modified foods to tailored medicines. We hope visitors, and especially students, will find the exhibition interesting and thought provoking and that it will help stimulate an interest in science subjects.

"On behalf of the British Council, I would like to offer our sincere gratitude to HH Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, for his generous patronage of this event in Dubai and to Knowledge Village for its support of DNA50."

DNA50 is an interactive exhibition with a mix of serious science and fun. In addition to the exhibition, there are three presentations for students, planned for the Dubai event, by eminent, locally-based speakers, on subjects from DNA science to forensic science. A professional science educator from the UK will also be performing a series of special shows for visitors,

DNA50 runs from December 20 to December 24 at Knowledge Village. The exhibition is open to the public in the afternoons (16.00-19.00) and entrance is free of charge.