ABU DHABI (WAM), 2nd May 2023 — NYU Abu Dhabi, in partnership with Tamkeen has completed the 11th Edition of the NYUAD Hackathon For Social Good in The Arab World. This event used quantum computing in order to find innovative solutions for challenges related to UN Sustainable Development Goals.
The signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between NYUAD and Geneva Science and Diplomacy Anticipator Foundation was the highlight of the last day of this three-day marathon.
The Open Quantum Institute Prize will be awarded to the top three winners as part of GESDA’s long-term partnership with NYUAD. This prize includes mentorship opportunities, industry networking, academic research and an invitation to the Geneva Science and Diplomacy Prediction Summit, 11-13 October 2023.
GESDA also announced that they would invite the winners of the first place to present their projects at the GESDA Summit, which will be held in Geneva in October, to diplomats and UN leaders as well as scientists. They will also be connected to quantum investors, scientists, and business leaders who can help them further develop their idea.
Sana Odeh is a NYUAD Affiliated faculty and clinical professor of computer science. She organised the event. “We founded the NYUAD International Hackathon for Social Good over 11 years ago, on the firm belief that technology could aid society. Quantum computing can transform many fields. However, it is most likely to help us solve our biggest challenge: the climate change.
The hackathon aimed to use this powerful technology in a way that would help achieve the UN Sustainable Development Goals. The hackathon gave students from around the globe a focus for their talent and energy. I was once again humbled by its results.
Team Smart Current won the first prize by using quantum computing to control energy grids through automated powerflow corrections in real time. The winning project was focused on using affordable and clean power to prevent and mitigate blackouts within the grid.
Team QatraH came in second, focusing on infrastructure, innovation in the industry, clean water and sanitation. Team QatraH designed a water distribution system that was more precise, robust, and environmentally friendly using quantum computing.
Team feeQra came in third with its project Qure. This solution helps medical professionals detect malignant tumors early using quantum machine-learning.
Participants examined quantum computing solutions for a variety of challenging projects, including machine learning, AI, chemistry, computer sciences, healthcare, mathematics, online gaming and security, as well as social sciences and arts (quantum generated artwork).
Experts from leading institutions such as ETH, MIT and Stanford provided sponsorship and mentoring to the students. They shared their knowledge and experiences in the worlds of academic research and tech startups.
The NYUAD Hackathon for Social Good received support from top Quantum Computing experts in both industry and academia. These included experts from the NYUAD Centre for Quantum and Topological Systems, Technology Innovation Institute, EPFL and University of Calgary’s Institute for Quantum Science and Technology.
