E-students in the zone at Fusion 06

One of the highlights in the zone will be a showcase of e-initiatives and project achievements, proving that the region's young entrepreneurial spirit is alive and kicking. In particular Zayed University's, American Institute for Technological Innovation (ITI) will unveil the winners of its 'e-Entrepreneur Column'.

In conjunction with AMEInfo, the Middle East's premier online business resource, ITI encouraged the region's university and college students, to submit articles in less than 800 words to a weekly online forum on technology and e-business innovation. Contributions had to be original, informative, well written, articulate and interesting, expressing opinions, offering advice, analysing business issues or targeting emerging trends related to the Gulf region. Once posted, they were reviewed by a panel of experts, led by Dr. Abdullah Abonamah, Director Institute for Technological Innovation Zayed University.

Articles were evaluated on certain criteria such as the author's knowledge of subject, technical merit, novelty or editorial approach, writing style/readability/language and how appropriate it was to the theme of e-entrepreneurship. Initially participating students had a chance for their article to be named as the 'Article of the Month' on the e-Column website and out of those, three articles were chosen as the best of the year. Authors of the year's top articles are eligible for an array of prizes such as, laptops, mp3 players and mobile phones.

Dr. Abdullah Abonamah said, 'There is no other forum in the Gulf that allows for students to address the emerging issues of e-business, innovation and technology. The physical prizes are one aspect but the opportunity to become a published author and impress potential employers such as regional businesses, investors and entrepreneurs is priceless.'

ITI will also be showcasing their e-biz challenge a unique e-business plan competition for students from across the Gulf region. This year, the challenge will include a competition on e-services to be executed in partnership with the Dubai e-Government and has incorporated a voice portal, in partnership with Emerging Technologies to add yet another dimension to this unique competition. On show at Fusion 06 will be some of the outstanding project achievements from previous competitions.

Apart from ITI, in total there will be up to eight of the leading institutes for higher education including, those institutes based at Knowledge Village the student zone sponsor, the American University of Dubai and American College. In addition to e-initiatives, the zone will encompass social clubs, advice and starter packs for 'freshers', special student discount programmes, student banking services and potential work experience and placements.

Adam Taylor, Event Director, Fusion 06, added, 'As well as blending fashion, music and style, all under one roof, Fusion 06 also offers practical and informative advice, for the generation that will produce tomorrow's entrepreneurs and business leaders.'