DUBAI (WAM)
Zayed University (ZU) has officially launched its third Annual Digital Transformation Hackathon, coinciding with the UAE Innovation Month and concentrating on the intersection of AI and Sustainability.
Participants from ZU, the American University of Sharjah, Khalifa University, and the University of Dubai will partake in workshops and mentorship sessions, fostering essential technology skills and promoting the practical development of pioneering ideas.
Organized by the College of Technological Innovation, the two-day event will kick off on February 21 at the NextGen Center on ZU’s Dubai Campus.
The initiative underscores the university's dedication to enhancing students' technical capabilities, aligning with the UAE Centennial 2071 vision to prepare them for the future workforce.
The challenges for the hackathon were collaboratively developed with the Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy, Mohammed bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC), Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA), and First Abu Dhabi Bank. Over the two days, student teams will demonstrate their proficiency in blockchain, big data, and augmented reality.
Vice President of Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy, Saeed Al Gergawi, commented, “Our participation in the Zayed University Hackathon reaffirms Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy’s commitment to supporting university students in their learning journeys and in recognition of the importance of digital transformation to our national economy. Talented young Emiratis are the key to the growth of our digital economy and the engine that will accelerate the nation’s transformation into one of the world’s leading digital hubs.
The Director of Remote Sensing Department at MBRSC, Saeed Al Mansoori, said, “MBRSC is participating in the Hackathon by presenting a student challenge focused on water quality monitoring. Throughout the proposed challenge, MBRSC aimed to not only address a critical environmental issue but also to spark innovative solutions utilising remote sensing technologies.”
Director of NextGen Center at ZU College of Technological Innovation and event organizer, Dr. Fatma Taher, said “We are delighted that this year's annual hackathon has seen an incredible surge in student participation. With more students joining forces from various universities across the UAE, we're igniting a powerful movement towards innovation and sustainability.”
Throughout February, ZU hosted more than 50 events as part of the Innovation Month, a nationwide celebration of creativity and readiness for the future.