The second edition of the Cavista Hackathon concluded on Saturday, April 27, 2024, at the esteemed Afe Babalola Auditorium, University of Lagos. Organised by Cavista Tech, a leading software development company operating in Nigeria, Botswana, India, and the Philippines, the hackathon witnessed the participation of 150 students from the University of Lagos (UNILAG), Lagos State University (LASU), and Yaba College of Technology (Yabatech).
Challenging Participants with AI-Based Solutions
During the 48-hour event, participants were challenged to conceptualise, develop, and present AI-based solutions to address health-related problems. Cavista provided participants with expert coaches who offered guidance and feedback on best practices throughout the hacking process.
Innovative Solutions and Recognition
At the culmination of the hackathon, nine finalist teams emerged, with Team Jupiter and Tech Med from LASU claiming the top positions and Farm Ceris of UNILAG securing the second runner-up spot. These teams showcased innovative solutions, with Team Jupiter’s AI dermatologist solution standing out among the entries.
Rewards and Recognition
The winners went home with ₦1 million, while the first and second runner-ups won ₦750,000 and ₦500,000, respectively. Speaking to Techpoint Africa, Michael Eziamaka, the team lead for Team Jupiter, expressed excitement at their win, emphasising the inclusive nature of the event and its potential to inspire future participation and innovation.
Cavista’s Commitment to Talent Development
Bamidele Odufuye, Executive Director of Cavista Holdings, the parent company of Cavista Tech, stated that the hackathon was their way of giving back to society, nurturing talents, and addressing the skill gap in a conversation with Techpoint Africa. They aim to ensure that young people start thinking critically and solving problems on a global scale.
Building on Past Success
He mentioned that this is the second edition of the hackathon and the first with three tertiary institutions participating. The first edition of the hackathon was held at Babcock University, and Odufuye considers it a success after one year. He said that some participants from the first hackathon have been integrated into the Cavista team. “Some of them are currently working with us at Cavista Tech; it also helps us identify talent and partner with our global partners. And then some of them have evolved their products into real-world solutions.”