A student from Dubai has secured a spot among the top 10 finalists for the prestigious Dh367,250 ($100,000) Chegg.org Global Student Prize 2025.
Dalia Zidan, a first-generation Palestinian high school student at Al Mawakeb Al Garhoud, stood out from nearly 11,000 nominations across 148 countries for her exceptional contributions to STEM, notably her AI-powered web app aiding the mental health of first-generation students.
Dalia’s passion for learning began by identifying educational system limitations.
In an exclusive interview with Khaleej Times on Wednesday, she stated, “Most classes at my school are based on grade-level, not ability. This prompted me to independently pursue advanced programs and challenge myself with difficult coursework beyond school.”
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This drive led her to the World Science Scholars program, where she was one of only 54 students globally selected to learn from renowned educators like Professor Brian Greene and Professor Cumrun Vafa.
She has also surpassed academic challenges at her school. “This was usually reserved for Grade 12 students,” she said, referring to her decision to self-study AP Calculus in Grade 10 and earn a perfect score of 5. “I’m now set to complete the most rigorous course load ever undertaken by a student at my school,” she added, underlining her commitment to exceeding her limits.
For Dalia, technology transcends being a mere tool; it’s a means to create a fairer world. She believes technology “has the greatest potential for significant impact, especially in under-resourced communities.” Her goal is to empower others with her skills. “I’m passionate about using my tech expertise to drive real, lasting change, especially for the less fortunate.”
Other Achievements
Dalia believes many bright students are hindered by a lack of resources. “The world is full of brilliant students who could become the next Einsteins or Newtons, yet they’re limited due to inadequate resources,” she said. “I believe all students should have access to resources that support their education.”
She’s already acting on this belief through her work with the International Youth Science Journal (IYSJ). “Our website and media platforms have reached over 100,000 views across 45 countries, published over 150 articles, released 13 seasonal issues, and hosted events like writing workshops and our first research symposium,” she shared.
Her school club, AMTech, has also made a notable impact, winning over $9,000 in competition prizes and collaborating with the UAE government to host Dubai AI Week. “As Co-President of my school’s tech club, AMTech, I’m developing a platform with peers to provide students access to extracurricular and scholarship opportunities, as well as custom AP, SAT, and coding guides,” she mentioned.
Her passion for simplifying complex topics is evident in her children’s book, Catching Infinity, which introduces math to young readers and was a global innovation finalist.
A Dream to Support Others
Dalia aims to leverage her success to uplift others. “I always hoped my initiatives would have a broader impact, but never imagined being among the top 10 finalists for the Chegg.org Global Student Prize,” she said, expressing her gratitude. “I’m proud and thankful to the Varkey Foundation and Chegg.org for creating such a strong platform for student voices.”
She believes everyone has the potential for greatness, but many lack the resources needed. “We’re all born capable of great things, but many students don’t access the opportunities they deserve due to lack of funding and resources,” she explained. “As a result, they miss out on discovering a love for STEM. I feel it’s the responsibility of those who are fortunate enough to have these resources, like myself, to support and uplift students who don’t.”
If she wins, Dalia plans to use the prize money to purchase tech kits for students, organize international STEM contests, and continue her mission to make STEM accessible to all.
About the Prize
The Global Student Prize, a companion to the $1 million Global Teacher Prize, aims to highlight exceptional students who are reshaping the world through innovation, leadership, and service. This vision is reflected in all of Dalia’s projects.
Nathan Schultz, President and CEO of Chegg, Inc., praised Dalia’s approach, noting that her work not only addresses problems but also uplifts communities.
“Huge congratulations to Dalia for being named a top 10 finalist. Your work is bold, thoughtful, and deeply necessary. You’re not just solving problems; you’re elevating communities and showcasing what’s possible when passion meets purpose,” said Schultz.
Schultz emphasized that Chegg believes students can be trailblazers, and this prize celebrates that spirit.
“At Chegg, we see students as powerful change agents. This prize celebrates student voices, highlights their ideas, and reminds us what can happen when young people lead with vision, courage, and heart,” he said.
Sunny Varkey, Founder of the Varkey Foundation, noted that Dalia’s story underscores the power of education to tackle global challenges.
“Congratulations, Dalia, on being a top 10 finalist for the Global Student Prize. Your story urgently reminds us that education is a potent catalyst for solving major historical challenges — from inequality and climate change to devastating diseases,” Varkey said.
He added that a brighter future for all hinges on investments in education and human potential.
“By investing in learning, technology, and human potential, we can build a future of opportunity, resilience, and compassion,” he said.
Assessment Criteria
Students’ achievements are evaluated on academic success, peer and community impact, creativity, and overcoming challenges.
The Global Student Prize Academy will announce the winner next month.
