Code for Climate Hackathon: A Bold Step Toward Regional Climate Innovation

Cavendish University Uganda (CUU) has unveiled its bold vision to become a regional hub for climate resilience and innovation, officially launching this strategy through the Code for Climate: Hackathon & Innovation Fair, held on September 24, 2025, at its main campus. Organised by the CUU Climate Change Hub in partnership with Climate Skaters Kitezi and supported by the International Organisation for Migration (IOM), the event brought together students, government representatives, international organisations, and grassroots climate advocates to co-create solutions for the pressing challenges of climate change and displacement.

The programme opened with welcome remarks from Prof. Omolara Oluwaniyi, CUU’s Director of Quality Assurance, followed by the Executive Director’s declaration of the Hackathon as the official launchpad of the university’s new strategic direction. Key contributions were made by Mr. Edison Kagona, Innovations Manager, who highlighted the significance of innovation and emerging technologies. Ms. Caroline Najjuko, representative of the Ministry of Water and lead on youth engagement, delivered a keynote address on Uganda’s national climate strategy, while the IOM presented on migration and resilience, underlining the urgent need for innovative solutions to climate-induced displacement. Ms Kemigisha Cynthia, Founder of Climate Skaters Kitezi, Girls Skate Uganda, and Climate Connect Media, amplified youth and community voices throughout the day.

Students were at the heart of the Hackathon, sharing personal stories, showcasing prototypes such as C-HIVE and Rinah Liquids, and participating in an interactive challenge guided by IOM experts, where they designed solutions to real-world migration and climate issues. A masterclass on entrepreneurship, innovation, and financial literacy was also delivered by Mr Nshuti Elve, a Certified Financial Literacy Master Trainer with the Bank of Uganda and Empretec National Trainer under UNCTAD, equipping students with skills to turn ideas into impactful ventures. The day concluded with a vote of thanks from Mr Richard Watenyera of Cavendish University and a networking session that strengthened collaboration among participants.

More than a competition, the Hackathon marked the first official step in Cavendish University Uganda’s climate innovation strategy. Building on past efforts that have engaged over 400 students in innovation bootcamps and with the forthcoming launch of InnovateOS, Cavendish University is laying the foundation for sustained growth and impact. As the Executive Director emphasized, the significance of the day went beyond prizes, as the solutions developed stand as proof that Cavendish and its partners can drive innovation to address climate resilience and migration challenges across East Africa.

Watch Highlights Here