UNESCO Youth Hackathon – 2026: An International Opportunity for Students and Youth!

Samarkand Institute of Economics and Service invites all talented, proactive, and innovatively minded student-youth to participate in the international Youth Hackathon 2026 competition, "Play Your Part: Youth Designing the Future of Media and Information Literacy," organized by UNESCO.

This international competition is aimed at supporting young people in developing innovative ideas and practical solutions in the areas of media and information literacy, artificial intelligence, digital security, and combating disinformation and false information.

📌Who can participate in the competition?

✅Young people aged 18-30;
✅ National or international teams consisting of 2 to 6 members;
✅ It is recommended to observe the principles of gender equality and inclusivity when forming teams.

📚Main tracks:

🔹 Artificial intelligence and media literacy (AI & MIL);
🔹 Media and information literacy education in the digital age;
🔹 Developing society through media and information literacy;
🔹 Increasing youth engagement in media and information literacy;
🔹 Other innovative ideas relevant to the theme (Open Track).

Projects are to be submitted in English in the following format:

• Project description (in PDF or Word format);
• A presentation video of up to 3 minutes (Pitch Video).

🏆What awaits the winners?

•The best teams will have the opportunity to participate in the international festival "Voices: European Festival of Journalism and Media Freedom," to be held in Thessaloniki, Greece, on November 26-28, 2026.

•UNESCO will fully cover the airfare, accommodation, and meal expenses to Greece for two members of each winning team.

📅Application deadline: August 16, 2026.

🔗Apply here: https://tally.so/r/MePkYk

💡Dear students! Do not miss the opportunity to showcase your innovative ideas on the international stage, gain new experience, and collaborate with young people from different countries around the world.