How do we ensure that technology serves the common good and empowers everyone? How can we shape the new technological wave that Artificial Intelligence (AI) brings?
The role of technology in various facets of our daily lives and societies is growing fast. How can humanity shape this technological wave? How can we anticipate future trends and steer the impact of artificial intelligence, robotics, quantum and other emerging technologies? How do we ensure that technology serves the common good and empowers people?
Building on our previous AI for the Common Good programme, Tech for Humanity aims to equip young people with the knowledge and skills to envision a world where technology serves as a catalyst for positive change.
We invite young people aged 18–35 who are passionate about new technologies and interested in innovation and creative problem-solving to work together in interdisciplinary teams and create AI-based recommendations on how technology can be used for the common good.
If you are interested in how technology can be used for the common good, apply now to take part in our future technology hackathon!
Learning objectives of the programme
- an understanding of the imminent waves of AI-driven technology
- an introduction to proactive strategies to engage with these technological waves
- strategies for directing technology towards positive ends
- expertise in crafting and executing technology strategies
- tools for generating meaningful social impact.
Who is it for?
Applicants must be aged between 18–35 and have an interest in one or more of the following fields:
- Environmental or social sciences: People who support social justice and/or are advocates of environmental/human rights.
- Design or business/entrepreneurship: People who design or develop products or solutions that aim to improve the well-being of individuals and communities. People who can be creative and think outside the box.
- Computer Science or STEM: People who have an interest in sciences and/or computing.
- Communication/new media: People who have a background in communications and new media.
How it works
Participants will form teams and receive input from our expert Mike Lloyd on AI-driven technologies, their effects and how to humanise these technologies. Mentors will support each team through the process. There is no need to be an expert on AI to participate as the hackathon will involve training in fundamental AI principles.
Teams will create a video with a message for leaders and influencers to help shape the future of technology. The winning team will be awarded a study visit to Edinburgh, where all the winning teams of the AI hackathon events across Europe will meet.
What is in it for you?
- Two and a half creative days, where you will have the chance to meet new people, learn more about emerging technologies and apply your knowledge to create a video message for the world.
- The opportunity to win a study visit to Edinburgh and meet other teams from similar hackathons in Europe.
- Food and coffee to energise you.
What is required
Participants should:
- bring their personal laptops and mobile phones – tablets are not ideal for this hackathon
- have the latest version of Windows or MacOS installed on their laptops, and either a webcam or a smartphone with a high-definition video capability
- be able to fully attend all days of the event.
You will be sent pre-event instructions for accessing online assets and platforms, which you will need to test prior to joining.
When and where
The hackathon will be hosted at the Eugenides Foundation on Friday 29 November, Saturday 30 November and Sunday 1 December 2024.
Participants are expected to be present for the whole duration of the event.
How to apply
To take part in the hackathon, complete the online application form by Wednesday 20 November 2024 (23.59 Greek time).
Information
For more information, please contact Athina Kartelia at Athina.KouzoulampaKartelia@britishcouncil.org.
Our partners
The hackathon is hosted at the Eugenides Foundation and is delivered in collaboration with Athena Research Center, Management Science Laboratory (MSL), Department of Management Science and Technology, Athens University of Economics and Business, AD and PR Lab and CID-CCS lab, Department of Communication, Media & Culture, Panteion University.
The hackathon is supported by Navarino and is taking place under the auspices of the General Secretariat for Research and Innovation and the Ministry of Education, Religious Affairs and Sports.