Qatar Foundation's "edutainment reality" TV programme the ‘Stars of Science’ is returning for a sixth season on MBC4, with a competitive new format.

The programme bolsters interest in science and technology as well as accelerates the development of the region's next generation of Innovators.

For its sixth season, ‘Stars of Science’ will debut a new format aimed at increasing competition, pitting small groups of innovators against each other for the chance to turn their ideas into reality.

Following a competitive selection process, 12 candidates aged 18 to 30 from across the Arab world are selected to come to Doha, where they are mentored by engineering and design specialists from across the globe.  The innovators' resilience, ingenuity and teamwork are tested in challenges throughout the programme as they develop their potential products from concept to working prototype with the ultimate goal of winning a share of the $600,000 prize money. A jury comprising prominent technology experts and industry leaders examine candidates' projects and determine who progresses to the next stage, said a statement.

Thousands of applicants are considered during a six-country casting tour aimed at identifying the candidates with the best ideas.  In the first four episodes of Stars of Science, viewers will witness the casting sessions where 12 candidates will eventually be selected from across the Arab world.

"Stars of Science searches the region for the most promising young innovators and connects them with world-class experts in order to bring their ideas to life," said, Sheikh Abdulla bin Ali Al-Thani, PhD, president of Hamad bin Khalifa University, Qatar Foundation. "The programme is stimulating a passion for science and technology among Arab youth, and is contributing to educational attainment and economic development in the Arab world."

Through its six seasons more than 28,000 young Arab inventors have submitted their ideas to ‘Stars of Science.’  

‘Stars of Science’ candidates have established an enduring legacy of giving back to their communities.  Around the Arab world, Stars of Science alumni are actively mentoring other innovators, speaking publicly and supporting local start-ups. Alumni have also presented at TEDx events, the White House, international forums and toured schools to speak about the importance of STEM education.  The 80 candidates who have been featured on Stars of Science have gone on to file 62 patents and found 16 regionally-based companies, it said.

"The overwhelming interest from young Arabs aspiring to participate in Stars of Science is indicative of a renewed enthusiasm for science and technology throughout the region," said Youssif Abdulrahman Saleh, perennial juror and general manager of Qatar Shell Research and Technology Centre in QSTP. "The high number of quality applications from talented, inspired people has made the selection process very difficult.  I have no doubt that the top 12 candidates ultimately chosen will be our best innovators thus far."

This season, Stars of Science has launched a new website that allows fans to enrich their viewing experience. The website is an interactive hub for technology-related discussion and helps Arab innovators connect with resources and each other and will include a discussion forum and live chat option before, during & after episode airings where Jury members, experts and candidates themselves will be able to respond to questions by the general public. – TradeArabia News Service