Ericsson launches sustainability hackathon for Gulf region youth

Ericsson and Hack for Earth have launched the Ericsson Sustainability Challenge, a hackathon designed to empower youth and innovators across the Gulf region. The initiative targets startups, university students, and ecosystem partners from the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Oman, Kuwait, and Bahrain.

The challenge utilizes the ‘Dream–Hack–Build’ methodology to guide participants from identifying sustainability issues to developing and deploying real-world solutions. The program aims to leverage advanced technologies, including AI, IoT, 5G, and next-generation connectivity, to support regional sustainability goals such as the UAE Vision 2031 and the Green Agenda.

Petra Schirren, President of Ericsson Gulf, stated that the initiative seeks to co-create solutions that support the region’s sustainability ambitions and inspire future changemakers. The hackathon focuses on using digitalization to build smarter, more resilient societies and accelerate climate action.