KFUPM Students Organize "Solution Hackathon" to Foster Academic Innovation

Demonstrating their commitment to innovation and academic collaboration, students from King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals (KFUPM), in partnership with students from University College London (UCL), successfully organized the "Solution Hackathon"—a three-day technology-driven event that brought together some of the brightest young minds. UCL is recognized as one of the world’s leading universities and ranked 9th globally in the QS World University Rankings 2025, while KFUPM ranked 1st in MENA according to the Times Higher Education Rankings 2025, continues to solidify its position as a premier education research institution for science, technology, and engineering.

The hackathon saw strong participation, with over 500 students from both universities applying to join. After a stringent selection process, 186 participants were selected and organized into 49 teams. These teams competed to create innovative solutions in three key areas: Digital solutions for healthcare, Enhanced STEM education, and Improved university student experience.

During the event, participants took part in mentorship sessions and specialized workshops led by industry experts in technology and entrepreneurship. These sessions provided valuable hands-on experience, equipping students with the skills necessary to tackle real-world challenges creatively. At the end of the hackathon, teams presented their projects to a panel of expert judges, with the top three teams from each university moving on to the final stage, where the winners will be revealed at the upcoming closing ceremony.

This initiative aligns with KFUPM’s ongoing commitment to empower its students and encourage them to lead impactful co-initiatives that expand their networks, explore cultural diversity, and promote the Kingdom’s reputation and its universities on a global scale. By participating in such initiatives, students not only develop critical skills but also contribute to strengthening Saudi Arabia’s academic and research standing worldwide.