Overview 

The Social Hackathon is a dynamic, competitive event aimed at developing innovative solutions to real social challenges – all under tight time constraints.
The program promotes key 21st-century skills including social entrepreneurship, teamwork, creative thinking, and civic engagement. 

What’s in the Program? 

Students work in teams to identify complex social problems, brainstorm actionable solutions, and present their ideas to a panel of judges – all within a high-pressure, time-limited environment.
They’ll experience firsthand how to turn ideas into impact, using real-world tools for social innovation. 

The hackathon provides students with a meaningful platform to pitch their initiatives and drive positive change in their communities. 

Program Goals 

To foster creativity, collaboration, and perseverance through the development and presentation of social innovation projects.
Participants will practice pitching their ideas clearly and persuasively to wider audiences, including competing teams and expert judges. 

Winning teams receive ongoing mentorship and support to further develop and implement their social initiatives – including connections with entrepreneurs and relevant organizations. 

Training & Preparation 

• Teacher Training: Each school appoints a lead educator who undergoes a dedicated training program to guide students in social innovation.
  Teachers will learn to help students define challenges, conduct research, think creatively, and collaborate effectively. 

• Team Selection and Prep: Teachers select and prepare student teams to represent their school. Preparation includes bi-weekly sessions focused on research, ideation, planning, and team-building. 

• Final Hackathon Day: A 12-hour, high-energy event featuring workshops, professional mentors, and guest speakers from the Atid network, local government, and industry.
  Students present their initiatives to judges, gain real-time feedback, and compete in a constructive, inspiring environment. 

What Is Required from the School? 

• Appoint a lead educator for the program 

• Recruit a team of at least 5 suitable students 

• Hold bi-weekly preparatory sessions (1.5 hours each) embedded in the school schedule 

• Ensure participation in all national training sessions for coordinators and students 

• Select a relevant community-focused project idea