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How do we ensure that technology serves the common good and empowers everyone?

How can we shape the new technological wave that AI brings?

If you are interested in how technology can be used for the common good, apply now to our future technology hackathon!

The British Council and Queen Mary University of London are pleased to invite you to participate in a hackathon focused on shaping the future of technology. Here you will learn about emerging technologies such as AI, quantum, synthetic biology, and automation, and their impacts. Emerging technologies are having an increased effect on us all so how can we shape this wave? In this hackathon you will learn to anticipate and steer the development and use of a range of emerging technologies.

Building on the previous programme AI for the Common Good, Tech for Humanity aims to offer knowledge and skills to young people to envision a world where technology serves as a catalyst for positive change.

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.

We are inviting young people aged between 18 and 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.

The hackathon will take place at Queen Mary University of London, Queens' Building, Mile End Road, London, E14NS.

How to apply

To take part in the hackathon, complete the online application form by Wednesday 30 October 2024 (23.59 UK time).

Information

For more information, please contact Chrysa Vlachopoulou at Chrysa.vlachopoulou@britishcouncil.org.

This event is powered by Synthesia.

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.

Note: There is no need to be an expert on AI to participate as the programme will involve training in AI fundamental principles. Mentors will support each team through the process.

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 to leaders and influencers to help shape the future of technology. The winning team will be awarded with a study visit to Edinburgh, where all 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 to the world.
  • The opportunity to win a study visit to Edinburgh and meet with 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 latest version of Windows or MacOS on laptops, and either a webcam or a smartphone with a high definition video capability
  • be able to join the event for the whole duration 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

Monday 4 November        14.00 - 16.30

Tuesday 5 November       09.00 - 17.00 

Wednesday 6 November  09.00 - 17.00 

at Queen Mary University of London, Queens' Building, Mile End Road, London, E14NS.

The hackathon will kick off on Monday 4 November from 14.00 -16.30 at Queen Mary University of London, Queens' Building, Mile End Road, London, E14NS with a panel of experts of the industry and academia who will share their experiences on the impact of emerging technologies. The conversation will emphasise on how we can design technology that prioritises human values, emotional intelligence, and inclusivity and balancing innovation with privacy and ethical responsibility. 

Lunch breaks, coffee, snacks and refreshments will be provided throughout the two and a half days of the event.

Participants are expected to be present for the whole duration of the event.

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