AI-Driven Climate Solutions Hackathon Coming Up: Registration Details Inside

Samsung Electronics MENA has joined forces with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to open registrations for the ACT28 AI for Climate Hackathon. Registration for the hackathon is open until 12 May 2024. Interested applicants can apply individually or as a team of up to 3 members.

This innovative initiative aims to leverage Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), mobile technologies, and other advanced technologies craft solutions for combating change. Announced COP28 in Dubai this collaboration underscores a commitment to engaging young talent in the climate-tech sector and fostering sustainable development through cutting-edge technology.

Omar Saheb, Regional Vice President of Marketing and Online Business at Samsung Electronics MENA, expressed enthusiasm for the hackathon, highlighting it as an opportunity for the region's youth to demonstrate their creativity and technical skills in climate action. "The initiative is aligned with our mission to harness the potential of advanced technologies for sustainable development," Saheb noted. This sentiment was echoed by Marina Walter, UNDP Deputy Assistant Administrator and Deputy Regional Director for Arab States, who pointed out the untapped potential of digital technologies in addressing climate change and empowering climate-aware youth.

Fostering Innovation for a Sustainable Future

The hackathon challenges participants from the UAE, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey to create solutions that contribute to achieving three Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): Climate Action, Life below Water, and Life on Land. Sahba Sobhani, UNDP ICPSD Director, underscored the initiative's alignment with the global vision of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, emphasizing the importance of investing in youth capacity and leadership for the planet's future.

Participants will have access to a variety of advanced technologies, including AI, ML, IoT, Blockchain, Data Analytics, Visualization, and Geospatial Technologies. These tools are aimed at fostering data-driven solutions, real-time monitoring, transparent climate finance, actionable insights, and location-based applications. The hackathon promotes a mobile-based approach, highlighting the potential of mobile apps powered by Galaxy AI and other AI solutions to drive innovative climate change solutions.

Mentorship and Development Opportunities

Seasoned mentors from Generation17, a partnership between Samsung and UNDP, will guide participants throughout the hackathon. Notable mentors include Nora Altwaijri from Saudi Arabia and Oğuz Ergen from Turkey. Additionally, workshops on AI, climate change, and mobile technologies will be conducted to equip participants with the necessary skills for effective solution development.

The hackathon will conclude with a Demo Day, where the top 10 teams will showcase their solutions to industry experts, investors, and policymakers. The top three teams will receive honors at an award ceremony in Dubai, marking the culmination of this initiative to combine technology and ingenuity in the fight against climate change.