Barkulanhub Hosts Xalkadoon Hackathon Focused on Climate Change and the Environment

About This Project: The vision and mission of this initiative extend beyond a one-time event; it aims to establish a long-term endeavor that could position Somaliland as a hub for technology and fintech innovation akin to Silicon Valley. We believe in the power of community, particularly in an era dominated by technological trends. With computer science emerging as one of the most sought-after fields of study in Somaliland, it is essential for our youth to have access to resources that facilitate learning, funding for their ideas, and opportunities to showcase their innovations.

Through this project, we aspire to cultivate an environment where Somaliland’s youth can find opportunities, present their ideas, and develop their skills until they achieve their aspirations. Together, we are committed to fostering a community that empowers every individual to pursue their dreams within the tech industry.

In collaboration with Xalkadoon, Barkulanhub held a 3-day hackathon from February 16 to February 18, 2023, centered around the theme “Climate Change and the Environment.” This dynamic event brought together talented participants tasked with developing innovative technological solutions to address pressing environmental challenges.

The hackathon commenced on Thursday, February 16, at the Barkulan co-working space, where 20 participants were divided into four teams of five. They collaborated intensively over 48 hours, from February 16 to February 17, to design and develop solutions aimed at combating climate change and environmental degradation.

On the final day, February 18, teams presented their projects in a pitch competition that attracted a large audience. Over 100 attendees were present to witness the final presentations, alongside the youth participants showcasing their projects. Two exclusive locations were selected for the announcement and closing ceremony, kept confidential until the event’s conclusion.

The hackathon featured four competing teams, with rigorous judging resulting in two teams emerging as winners. The first-place team received $700 for their outstanding project, while the second-place team was awarded $300. Despite fierce competition, all participants gained invaluable experience and contributed to a vital cause.

Impact of the Hackathon: The impact of the “Climate Change and the Environment” hackathon extended far beyond the three days of coding and competition. Participants left with a deeper understanding of how technology can be leveraged to create practical solutions for some of the most urgent environmental challenges facing the world today.

Several projects developed during the hackathon have garnered attention from local organizations interested in furthering their development. In particular, the winning teams have continued working on their solutions, with plans to partner with environmental groups to bring them to fruition. The hackathon fostered collaboration between tech enthusiasts and environmental advocates, sparking potential long-term partnerships.

Moreover, the event encouraged participants to think critically about sustainability and ignited ongoing discussions on how local communities can contribute to the global fight against climate change. By involving young minds in addressing these challenges, Xalkadoon and Barkulanhub not only inspired innovative ideas but also cultivated a lasting commitment to environmental responsibility among participants.

With a total of 20 participants and an audience exceeding 100 people on pitch day, the hackathon exemplified how community-driven initiatives can empower youth to tackle global issues with creativity and purpose. Through this event, Barkulanhub and Xalkadoon are setting the stage for future collaborations that bridge technology and environmental activism.