7 November 2024, Thu |
6:37 PM
Cisco announced the commencement of a UAE-wide competition for university students at Expo 2020 Dubai. ‘Power the Future: The Cisco Sustainability Challenge’ encourages young entrepreneurs and environmentalists to discuss how technology may help accelerate and measure the sustainability agenda.
“For the Cisco Sustainability Challenge, we are leveraging our tools and expertise to empower the youth, push the boundaries of innovation and bring our sustainable future to life. Expo 2020 Dubai aspires to be the most sustainable World Expo in history, and with this, serves as a tremendously important platform on which to engage the youth, hear their ideas and make a difference.” said Adele Trombetta, Vice President of Customer Experience at Cisco Europe, the Middle East, Africa and Russia.
She added, “I am excited to see the submissions in due course and encourage all university students across the UAE to take part in helping to shape a smarter tomorrow,”
“As the Official Digital Network Partner of Expo 2020 Dubai, Cisco shares a deep understanding and vision with Expo, driving the sustainable innovation agenda. We have experienced Cisco’s technological expertise firsthand and are delighted that they are inviting the UAE’s university students to work with them on this challenge,” said Dina Storey, Director Sustainability Operations, Expo 2020 Dubai.
“Cisco’s purpose is to power an inclusive future for all. We believe that in order to make this possible, people, technology and sustainability must work in harmony. As a technology provider, we have the opportunity and, in many ways, the responsibility to lead this agenda. I am extremely proud of our team for inspiring others and giving their time to nurture young talent. I look forward to seeing the innovations which result from this challenge,” said Wendy Mars, President of Cisco’s Europe, Middle East, Africa and Russia region (EMEAR).
Cisco is encouraging students to contribute insights into the region’s major concerns, which aligns with the UAE’s objective of building an inventive, sustainable, and green future. Each participant must identify a problem, build a technological solution, and demonstrate clear impact – all while concentrating on one of four themes:
The challenge begins with a 10-minute presentation deck that outlines the problem, potential solution, and value proposition. Successful contenders will be asked to present their idea to a jury of technology, sustainability, and business professionals at The Cisco Grove at Expo 2020 Dubai. Following the development of a prototype solution, the top 5 innovators will present their operating model, solution design, and financial analysis to the jury once again.
Winning entries will be disseminated by Cisco and Expo 2020 Dubai for a wider audience, and chosen candidates will get a 6-month mentorship programme from Cisco technology specialists to help them further develop their experience and skillset.
