The UNESCO Youth Hackathon 2025 is a premier global innovation challenge designed to empower young leaders to address critical issues in today’s digital world.
It is scheduled for October 23–24, 2025, in Cartagena, Colombia. This event forms a key part of UNESCO’s Global Media and Information Literacy (MIL) Week.
This UNESCO hackathon invites youth aged 18 to 30 worldwide to develop creative and impactful solutions that foster safe, ethical, and inclusive digital environments.
Whether you are a student, early professional, or digital enthusiast, this event offers a unique platform to showcase your ideas, collaborate internationally, and gain valuable exposure.
What is the UNESCO Youth Hackathon 2025?
The UNESCO Youth Hackathon 2025 is a global competition that challenges young innovators to develop practical projects that tackle pressing challenges in digital media and information literacy. Its core mission is to promote responsible use of technology and empower youth to lead the transformation of digital spaces.
The 2025 UNESCO Youth Hackathon theme is “Youth Leading the Way: Building MIL Solutions for Impact,” emphasizes the role of young people in shaping a more inclusive and trustworthy digital future.
UNESCO Hackathon Dates & Key Details:
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Dates | October 23–24, 2025 |
| Location | Cartagena, Colombia |
| Participants | Youth aged 18–30 worldwide |
| Team Size | 3 to 6 members (national or international) |
| Cost | Free to enter; travel and accommodation covered for winners |
This event provides an excellent opportunity to engage with peers from around the globe and collaborate on innovative digital solutions.
Key Focus Areas of the UNESCO Youth Hackathon
Participants are invited to develop projects addressing the following critical topics:
- AI Ethics and Governance: Promoting transparency, fairness, and accountability in AI systems.
- Misinformation and Disinformation: Creating tools and campaigns to combat fake news and false information.
- Online Hate Speech and Digital Safety: Developing strategies to mitigate harmful online behaviors and protect users.
- Digital Platform Monopolies: Encouraging competition and fairness in digital marketplaces dominated by a few corporations.
- Information Integrity and Civic Engagement: Enhancing media literacy to support informed participation in democratic processes.
Also Check:
Hackathon Problem Statements: Complete Guide with Examples (2025)
Project Ideas For UNESCO Hackathon
The hackathon encourages a broad range of project formats, including:
- Mobile and web applications
- Educational and awareness games
- Podcasts and video content
- Social media campaigns
- Artistic and creative works
- Community-driven initiatives
This inclusive approach welcomes participants with diverse skills, from technology to communication and the arts.
How to Register and Participate in the UNESCO Youth Hackathon 2025
Step 1: Registration (Deadline August 15, 2025)
Visit the official UNESCO Youth Hackathon portal to complete the free online registration form with your team information.
Step 2: Mentoring Phase (August 2025)
All registered teams receive access to expert-led online mentoring focused on refining project concepts, innovation strategies, and impact assessment.
Step 3: Project Proposal Submission (Early September 2025)
Submit a comprehensive project proposal outlining your solution, its objectives, and implementation plan. Detailed submission deadlines will be confirmed by UNESCO.
Step 4: Final Event (October 23–24, 2025)
Selected finalists will be invited to present their projects in Cartagena, Colombia. UNESCO will cover travel and accommodation expenses for these participants.
What Are the UNESCO Judging Criteria?
Projects will be evaluated based on:
- Originality and Creativity: How unique and innovative the idea is.
- Feasibility and Sustainability: Practicality and potential for long-term impact.
- Relevance and Impact: Effectiveness in addressing the hackathon’s themes.
- Alignment with MIL 2025: Contribution to media and information literacy goals.
Important Dates For UNESO Hackathon
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| August 15, 2025 | Registration deadline |
| August 2025 | Mentoring phase |
| Early September 2025 | Project submission deadline |
| October 23–24, 2025 | Final presentations in Cartagena |
Check out:
Hackathon Project Ideas That Win: Smart, Creative, and Easy to Build
Final Thoughts
The UNESCO Youth Hackathon 2025 is an outstanding opportunity for young innovators to lead positive change in the digital world.
By participating, you will gain valuable experience, collaborate globally, and help build safer, fairer digital spaces.
If you are between 18 and 30 and passionate about media literacy and technology, start preparing now and register before August 15, 2025.
For more youth-focused programs, internships, and opportunities, keep following thenewviews.com.
FAQs Related to UNESCO Youth Hackathon
Who is eligible to participate in the UNESCO Youth Hackathon 2025?
Youth aged 18 to 30 years old from any country can participate in the UNESCO Youth Hackathon 2025.
Is there a registration fee for the UNESCO Youth Hackathon?
No, the registration for the UNESCO Youth Hackathon is completely free. Additionally, winners’ travel and accommodation costs for the final event in Cartagena are fully covered by UNESCO.
What types of projects can I submit for the UNESCO Youth Hackathon ?
Participants can submit diverse projects such as mobile apps, podcasts, social campaigns, games, or community initiatives that address digital challenges and promote media and information literacy.
What are the main themes of the UNESCO Youth Hackathon?
Key themes include AI ethics and governance, fighting misinformation, online hate speech prevention, digital platform fairness, and promoting information integrity and civic engagement.
How do I register for the UNESCO Youth Hackathon 2025?
Register online by filling out the official form on the UNESCO Youth Hackathon website before the deadline of August 15, 2025. Make sure to provide accurate team and contact details.
Can I join the hackathon if I have no coding or technical experience?
Absolutely. The UNESCO Youth Hackathon welcomes participants from all skill levels and backgrounds who have innovative ideas to improve digital media literacy.
Can international teams participate in the UNESCO Youth Hackathon?
Yes, teams can be national, regional, or international, encouraging collaboration among youth from different countries.
Where can I get the latest updates about the Hackathon?
Stay updated by visiting the official UNESCO Youth Hackathon website and follow thenewviews.com for the latest news, tips, and related opportunities.
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