The Saudi Arabian Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture (MEWA) has launched the “Agriculture Hackathon,” to drive creativity and innovation within the agricultural domain.The event seeks to develop digital solutions, platforms, and applications that strategically address the concerns in the sector, fostering a healthy agriculture ecosystem in line with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 objectives.

Furthermore, the competition aims to support agricultural development goals, strengthen food and water security, increase productivity and quality, optimize supply chain processes, address agricultural challenges, harness modern and emerging agricultural technologies, and boost agricultural awareness and education among various segments of society.

The competition is designed for university and institute students, graduates, aspiring agricultural entrepreneurs, individuals with inventive technological ideas in agriculture, enthusiasts, and experts in the field, including programmers.

It is centered around creating innovative solutions for different challenges in two primary tracks: the first on sustainable agricultural development, food security, fishery wealth, promoting sustainable consumption practices, protected cultivation, modern agricultural techniques, water-saving agriculture, and rainwater harvesting.

Meanwhile, the second track encompasses plant and animal health, strengthening disease and pest prevention in agriculture and animal husbandry, and preventing in addition to combating the red palm weevil infestation, according to the Ministry.

Additionally, the Ministry highlighted that the Hackathon competitions present a platform for participants to develop their ideas, demonstrate their technological capabilities and skills, and engage with agricultural experts and specialists.

They will experience a competitive environment, with the top three winners receiving attractive financial rewards of up to $79,994, the Ministry noted .