2025 CTED DevLab Hackathon

Date: April 15, 2025

Time: 12:00pm to 2:00pm

Overview

The International Conference on “The Academic Economist’s Perspective on the Benefits and Risks of AI, Data Science, Blockchain, and Machine Learning” will hold on April 14-15, 2025 at New York University (NYU) Abu Dhabi. The high-level plenary with University and UAE leadership will take place on 14th April in A6 Room C East Forum, Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi. This conference provides a forum for groundbreaking academic discussions that delve into these powerful technologies, as well as discussing challenges and opportunities, with a focus on the UAE and global economy. The conference convenes academics, researchers, policymakers, and technologists to explore synergies at the intersection of AI, machine learning, and blockchain, as well as innovations in the fields of cryptocurrency, digital currencies, and fintech. Attendees will have an opportunity to understand the potential of AI and blockchain and learn about the developments shaping the future of tech.

In this edition, NYUAD students will have an opportunity to take part in the 2025 CTED DevLab Hackathon. Submissions will be presented live during the conference with the opportunity to win prizes.

How to Participate

Create a solution to any of the prompts below. The top 5 submissions will get a chance to present live to an audience of industry experts during the International conference on “The Academic Economist’s Perspective on the Benefits and Risks of AI, Data Science, Blockchain, and Machine Learning”.

Benefits

1. Opportunity to solve a real problem

2. Possibility of including your solution in ongoing research

3. Stellar addition to your resume and subsequent job search

4. Stand a chance to win prizes

Challenge Prompts

Africa:

1. Smart Agriculture & Climate Resilience
   How can technology help smallholder farmers in Africa increase productivity and adapt to climate change? Develop a solution that leverages data, IoT, AI, or other emerging technologies to enhance agricultural resilience and sustainability.
   
   

2. Financial Inclusion for Farmers & Rural Entrepreneurs
   Millions of farmers in Africa remain unbanked or lack access to affordable credit and insurance. Design a technology-driven financial solution—such as blockchain-based lending, mobile banking, or AI-powered credit scoring—that expands financial access in rural communities.
   
   

3. Market Access & Supply Chain Innovation
   Post-harvest losses and lack of direct market access reduce farmers’ earnings. How can digital platforms, smart logistics, or AI-driven insights improve market access, pricing transparency, and supply chain efficiency for smallholder farmers?
   
   

4. Sustainable Energy & Infrastructure for Rural Development
   Limited access to energy and infrastructure hampers agricultural productivity. Propose a technology-driven solution—such as solar-powered irrigation, decentralized cold storage, or smart rural electrification—that enhances rural economic development.
   
   

5. Data-Driven Farming & Decision-Making
   How can AI, IoT, and predictive analytics empower farmers to make better decisions about planting, harvesting, and resource management? Develop a tool that provides real-time insights to improve yields and efficiency.
   
   

6. Digital Land Rights & Governance
   Land tenure insecurity remains a significant challenge for rural communities. Design a digital system—using blockchain, GIS, or mobile platforms—that makes land records more secure, transparent, and accessible.
   
   

7. The Future of Agri-Tech Entrepreneurship
   How can technology foster a new wave of agricultural entrepreneurs in Africa? Develop a business model, digital platform, or innovative financial tool that enables young people to build sustainable agribusinesses.

United Arab Emirates (UAE):

1. Climate-Smart Agriculture & Desert Farming
   How can technology support agricultural production in arid and desert environments like the UAE? Develop solutions leveraging AI, IoT, hydroponics, or precision farming to optimize resource use and improve food security.
   
   

2. Agri-FinTech for SMEs & Agribusinesses
   While the UAE has a developed financial sector, small agribusinesses still face challenges in accessing capital. Design a digital financial tool—such as AI-driven credit assessment, blockchain-based trade finance, or agribusiness crowdfunding—to support UAE’s agri-tech ecosystem.
   
   

3. Smart Supply Chains & Food Security
   With heavy reliance on food imports, the UAE requires efficient supply chains. How can blockchain, IoT, or AI improve transparency, reduce waste, and optimize food distribution networks?
   
   

4. Renewable Energy for Sustainable Farming
   Given the UAE’s commitment to sustainability, how can solar energy, desalination, or energy-efficient greenhouses support agriculture in extreme climates? Propose a technology-driven solution that integrates renewable energy with food production.
   
   

5. AI & Robotics in High-Tech Farming
   How can AI, robotics, and automation revolutionize farming in the UAE? Develop a solution that enhances productivity in controlled-environment agriculture, vertical farming, or precision livestock management.
   
   

6. Digital Land & Agri-Tech Regulation
   The UAE’s land use policies and agri-tech sector require modern digital governance. Design a blockchain or AI-powered system to enhance land-use efficiency, ensure compliance, and support agricultural innovation.
   
   

7. Future of Agri-Tech Entrepreneurship in the UAE
   How can technology drive agri-tech entrepreneurship in the UAE, attracting investment and innovation? Develop a business model, digital platform, or smart financing tool that supports startups in the food and agriculture sector.

Submit your entry HERE by 8th April 2025.