Cultivating Innovation for Societal Impact
...ImpactLab Hackathon Ignites Student Innovation
In a spirited display of ingenuity and collaboration, the ImpactLab Hackathon brought together some of Namibia’s most promising student innovators in a dynamic, solution-driven environment. This pioneering initiative was made possible through a strategic collaboration between Schoemans, NUST and MTC.
Aimed at addressing socio-economic challenges through practical, tech-based solutions, the hackathon created a vibrant platform for critical thinking, interdisciplinary collaboration, and real-world problem-solving.
Five student teams enthusiastically jumped into the ideation process, with the first day marked by purpose and creativity. “Students were actively engaged, exploring innovative solutions for societal issues around Namibia,” noted Dr Gereon Kapuire, an academic in the Faculty of Computing and Informatics (FCI).
Over the course of several days, participants tackled issues such as digital inclusion, food security, and sustainable service delivery. With guidance from mentors and support from technical experts, teams demonstrated initiative and adaptability in responding to real development needs.
The culmination of the event was a pitch of high-impact prototypes. The final presentations revealed not only technological creativity but also deep sensitivity to local challenges.
Winning team TechTonics impressed judges with their originality and vision, while runner-up Feed Forward Namibia presented a concept with strong practical potential. “Being part of this hackathon taught us how to work under pressure and think beyond the classroom. We feel more confident knowing our ideas can make a real difference.” shared a student from the group named TechTonics.
“NUST extends its sincere appreciation to Schoemans and MTC for their vital support. The University also commends all participants for their creativity, discipline, and collaborative spirit—hallmarks of the innovation emerging from Namibia’s next generation,” expressed Dr Kapuire.
More than just a competition, the ImpactLab Hackathon united future innovators in shaping solutions that matter—solutions with the potential to create a more connected and equitable future.
