Learn. Build. Impact.

Hackathon

Empowering students to solve real-world problems using modern tools and AI.

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Join us at

2026 Hackathon:
AI for Good

This event brings together students and early-career developers to collaborate, innovate, and build impact-driven software solutions that address challenges faced in Jamaica, the Caribbean, and the wider world.

Participants will form teams and build working prototypes using:

🤖 AI tools (ChatGPT, GitHub Copilot, etc.)

🎨 Figma & design tools

💻 Modern frameworks, APIs, and open-source tools

No prior hackathon experience is required — just curiosity, creativity, and the willingness to learn.

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Teams will work collaboratively to design and build technology-driven solutions that address real-world challenges affecting students and communities. Project focus areas include education and student life, financial literacy and inclusion, healthcare access, climate change and sustainability, community safety and public services, and the use of artificial intelligence for social good. The overarching goal is to solve meaningful problems using technology, creativity, and innovation, while demonstrating how locally built solutions can create regional and global impact.

Schedule

January 31, 2026

Hackathon Weekend
(In-Person at UWI, Mona)

Days
Hours
Minutes
Seconds

Prizes & Rewards

Compete for $500+ USD in cash prizes, merch and recognition!

0 +

Merch, Swag & Giveaways

$ 0 USD

Cash Prizes

0 Hours +

Industry Mentorship

Registration

Who Can Participate?

This hackathon is primarily focused on university students and recent graduates (early-career developers). Students from any institution across Jamaica and the Caribbean are welcome. However, anyone can join.

Registration Opens

Venue

How to reach

Direction to the Venue

REACH US

Get Direction the UWI Mona

The Faculty of Science & Technology (FST)

1 Ring Road, Mona, Kingston 7, Jamaica

 

FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can participate in the hackathon?

The hackathon is primarily focused on students, including university students, college students, sixth form/CAPE students with basic technical skills, and recent graduates or early-career developers. Participants from institutions across Jamaica and the wider Caribbean are welcome.

Do I need to be an experienced developer to join?

No. You don’t need to be an expert. This hackathon is designed for learning, collaboration, and creativity. Beginners, intermediate, and advanced participants are all welcome. Teams are encouraged to include a mix of skills such as development, design, and problem-solving.

Is there a registration fee?

No. Participation is free for selected participants, thanks to the support of our partners and sponsors.

How many people can be on a team?

Teams can have up to 5 members. You may register as an individual or with a team. Participants who register individually will have the opportunity to form teams at the event.

What kind of projects can we build?

Teams will build solutions that address real-world challenges such as education and student life, financial literacy and inclusion, healthcare access, climate change and sustainability, community safety and public services, and AI for social good. Projects can be web apps, mobile apps, platforms, or prototypes.

Will mentors be available during the hackathon?

Yes. Industry professionals and community mentors will be available throughout the event to provide guidance on technical challenges, design, and project direction.

What should I bring to the hackathon?

Participants should bring:
- A laptop and charger
- Any software or tools they prefer to use
- An ID or student ID
- Enthusiasm and a willingness to collaborate

Food, refreshments, and swag will be provided.

What happens after the hackathon?

Selected projects may receive post-event support, mentorship, and opportunities for further development. Participants will also become part of the Jamaican Developers Community, gaining access to future events, job opportunities, and projects.