ZARQA, Aug. 19 (Petra) -- The Hashemite University concluded on Tuesday the activities of the Life Sciences Research Experience Project, designed for 9th and 10th-grade female students from the Zarqa II Education Directorate, following four weeks of intensive laboratory and academic training.

The program featured hands-on research and mentorship across multiple faculties, including Science, Pharmacy, Prince Al-Hussein bin Abdullah II Faculty of Information Technology, Business, Applied Medical Sciences, Nursing, Dentistry, and the Prince El Hassan bin Talal Faculty of Natural Resources and Environment. Participating students engaged directly in scientific experiments under the supervision of university researchers and faculty members.

The graduation ceremony was patronized by Hashemite University Vice President Prof. Hassan Katkhada, in the presence of Zarqa II Education Director Wael Abu Al-Foul, Project Director and Dean of Scientific Research Prof. Lubna Tahtamouni, participating deans, supervisors, and school principals.

Organized by the university’s Deanship of Scientific Research, the project is backed by the International Cell Research Organization (ICRO) and Colorado State University, operating under a research grant from Dr. James Bamburg and Laurie Minamide of Colorado. The initiative aligns with UNESCO's framework for promoting girls' integration into Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields.

Vice President Prof. Katkhada noted that the project stems from the university's commitment to community outreach, women's empowerment, and educational advancement in neighboring areas. He explained that the program introduces students to higher education and scientific research, helping them map out future career paths early through real-world laboratory experiences.

He highlighted that this year's edition builds on a successful inaugural cycle conducted with students from Mafraq Governorate, expressing hope that the initiative will expand to other regions across the Kingdom. "Investing in youth, particularly young women, is an investment in society's future," Katkhada said.

Project Director Prof. Lubna Tahtamouni emphasized that mentoring high school students required a specialized pedagogical approach, combining fundamental concept clarification with active encouragement. Over four weeks, students worked with DNA, RNA, proteins, nanoparticles, and laboratory models, alongside developing questionnaires, conducting interviews, and exploring programming, artificial intelligence, robotics, and the Internet of Things (IoT).

Zarqa II Education Director Wael Abu Al-Foul praised the strategic partnership with the Hashemite University, noting that the initiative successfully bridged classroom theory with advanced university-level research environments.

The ceremony also featured a virtual address by Dr. James R. Bamburg and Laurie S. Minamide, commending the university's efforts in fostering academic inquiry and supporting youth innovation. The event concluded with the distribution of certificates to participating students, recognition awards for top scientific posters and presentations, and honors for supporting faculty, assistants, and school administrators.

//Petra// AA