KUWAIT, Nov 18: The His Highness Sheikh Salem Al-Ali Al-Sabah Informatics Award officially launched the second edition of the "Kuwait Hackathon" competition on Monday. The event serves as an educational and developmental platform aimed at accelerating pioneering youth projects with a focus on digital innovation across various fields.

Eng. Bassam Al-Shammari, Chairman of the Supreme Organizing Committee of the Award, told Kuwait News Agency (KUNA) that the Award, established in 2001, has been a trailblazer in promoting digital innovation through numerous initiatives and events. These efforts highlight the importance of digital transformation in advancing the knowledge economy and driving sustainable development.

Al-Shammari emphasized that the second edition of the "Kuwait Hackathon" aims to contribute to the national economy by leveraging opportunities in digital entrepreneurship and innovation-based growth. It also seeks to empower Kuwaiti youth, encouraging them to unlock their potential and unleash their creative abilities.

Rajab Al-Aloush, a member of the Supreme Organizing Committee of the award, shared with KUNA that 84 projects were registered for the hackathon by the end of October, with participation from over 15 relevant organizations. Among the most notable partners are the Kuwait Innovation Center, which is a primary partner, and the Public Authority for Youth, serving as the media partner.

Al-Aloush further explained that the first phase, which involved elimination rounds, concluded successfully. As a result, 22 teams advanced to an innovation development camp held from November 4 to 9 at the Kuwait Innovation Center. During this phase, team members received support to enhance their technical and entrepreneurial skills, improved their digital projects, and exchanged experiences with successful entrepreneurs and specialists. Currently, these teams are working intensively to secure the top three spots in the final phase.

It is worth noting that the Informatics Award introduced the first edition of the "Kuwait Hackathon" competition in 2019 with the goal of engaging talented individuals to develop innovative solutions to national and societal issues. University students participated, and their projects were showcased in an exhibition during a ceremony sponsored by the Chairperson of the Board of Trustees, Sheikha Aida Salem Al-Ali Al-Sabah. The most innovative winners were honored at the event.