About the Hackathon

Background

The increasing use and adoption of digital and data solutions in almost all sectors require professionals to think of quick, innovative and creative solutions to modern problems. This often requires multidisciplinary teams working together, bringing different perspectives and skillsets to solve complex real-world problems. At the same time, we have also evidenced the real harms brought to people and communities if solutions are not sufficiently thought through. We therefore require principled and value-driven approaches to developing such solutions. Modern workplaces, therefore require professionals to work in multidisciplinary teams, understand complex problems, think quickly, ideate innovative solutions, which also requires critical, research and interpersonal skills. Often such opportunities are difficult to embed within university curricula, building truly interdisciplinary teams with a wide range of skills and experiences. To address these needs, we are developing a data and design hackathon, focussed on addressing real-world problems introduced by colleagues from the industry. 

Students from all degree types, disciplines and Schools throughout the Faculty are invited to participate in the hackathon, where they would be working as teams over the first week of the Easter break. Over the week, the teams will work intensely on a problem that they are interested in exploring. The teams will pitch a range of solutions such as digital prototypes, data science solutions, data analysis results, and mock-ups of websites and apps. A panel of industry experts will evaluate these solutions and winning teams will be awarded prizes. 

Data & Design Hackathon - a unique opportunity for students across disciplines to collaborate, innovate, and solve real-world problems

• No prior coding experience is required, just bring your creativity, analytical thinking, and problem-solving skills. 

• Exciting cash prizes for winning teams.

• Gain hands-on experience, enhance your professional skills, and network with like-minded peers, faculty members, and industry professionals. 

• This is the first-ever hackathon of its kind - help shape future events and redefine how hackathons bring together students from different fields. 

Don't miss out on this exciting opportunity to learn, collaborate, and make an impact!

Acknowledgement

This hackathon is supported by Campaigns and Alumni Relations (CAR) funding to the Faculty of Social Sciences for the academic year 2024-25 to support projects that foster student success.