Candidates had to compete to propose entrepreneurial solutions for the agricultural or industrial sectors, and imagine an awareness campaign to be deployed, led by higher education students, aimed at encouraging younger generations to good management of water resources.
The event on December 16 and 17, 2024 closes a pre-hackathon period of nearly three weeks during which 11 teams selected from more than 200 applications benefited from an intensive training program. Supervised by trainers and coaches from the world of entrepreneurship, participants were able to structure and refine their project ideas around the environment and sustainable development.
At the end of this competition, the jury of experts selected three teams during the final phase of the Hackathon.
· 1is prize won by “Hydrovision” for its project “Aqua for us » raises awareness about water conservation through an interactive app that connects users’ daily habits with practical tips and rewards, encouraging sustainable practices.
· 2th prize won by “Pure Aqua White” for its ecological filtration system project based on industrial waste to reuse wastewater for irrigation or watering, while supporting a circular and eco-responsible economy.
· 3th prize won by “Créatech” for its Aquatech project transforms air humidity into drinking water using technology powered by solar energy, meeting water needs in arid areas in a sustainable way.
A “favorite” prize from the jury was awarded to the “Raha” team for its “Bluepact” project, an educational game inspired by Monopoly, aimed at raising awareness among young people about sustainable water management through challenges interactive, forming a generation aware of environmental issues.
The winners will all benefit from post-hackathon support to refine their project ideas.
Patricia Llombart Cussac, Ambassador of the European Union to Morocco, declared on this occasion: “The environment and youth occupy a central place among the priorities of the European Union.
The Hackathon 2024 perfectly illustrates the ability of young people to transform ideas into concrete actions, combining entrepreneurial spirit and environmental commitment, while cultivating creativity, community spirit and cooperation. We warmly congratulate the winners of this second edition: may this adventure be the starting point for new ambitious and sustainable projects, thus strengthening the positive impact of youth on our society and our planet. »
Among the 200 applications received, 11 teams were selected to present diverse solutions in the agriculture, industry and awareness sectors. These initiatives aim to optimize water management while respecting the environment. In the field of agriculture, approaches such as the introduction of hydroponic systems, dehumidification technology and rainwater harvesting are being emphasized.
For the industrial sector, the teams also proposed innovative solutions including waste recovery, nitrate reduction, automation of irrigation and ecological filtration systems. Finally, to raise awareness among young people about water management, fun and interactive projects have been developed. These initiatives promote early and lasting awareness of environmental issues linked to water, thus contributing to forming a more conscious and responsible generation.
The jury for this hackathon was composed of:
• Daniele DOTTO, Deputy Head of Delegation of the European Union in Morocco
• Othmane BENMOUSSA, Vice-President of the Euromed University of Fez
• Chakib NEJJARI, Vice-President of the Euromed University of Fez
• Siham Laraichi, General Directorate of Water, Ministry of Equipment, Transport, Logistics and Water
• Omar Amrani, Director of Innovation and Education at StartUp Station
Water stress: a priority shared between the European Union and Morocco
The urgency of a global response to the water crisis has become essential, given the economic, social and security issues it creates. This situation requires an integrated and long-term approach to address the impacts on the economy, vulnerable populations and migratory movements. At the same time, the European Union and Morocco share common priorities in terms of adaptation and mitigation of the effects of climate change on water management. Promoting integrated and sustainable management of water resources is crucial to responding to water stress, integrating strategies such as demand reduction, watershed protection and the development of nature-based solutions.
