The Hackathon is a simulation-based competition hosted for students to raise awareness and promote research and critical thinking. Students from high schools and undergraduate programs will compete in teams to design solutions for urgent issues. Rooted in the broader conference theme of Social Equity, this format invites participants to explore relevant issues, understand nuances, and develop innovative solutions for pressing challenges.

Teams will begin by identifying a specific, community-based problem within their chosen theme. Throughout the Hackathon, students will engage in interactive workshops and knowledge-sharing sessions led by experts and practitioners, building essential skills in research, analysis, and advocacy.

With support from mentors across academia and the development sector, each team will attempt to design solutions that include a clearly defined problem statement, evidence-based recommendations, an implementation plan, and an assessment of potential impact.

The Hackathon will culminate in a final presentation, where teams will pitch their proposals to a panel of judges, including policymakers, researchers, and practitioners. These sessions are designed to simulate real-world engagement, offering students not only constructive feedback but also a platform to explore ways to drive equitable change.