Amer Ahmed, a second-year Master of Arts student in Global African Studies, specializing in Diplomacy and Africa’s International Relations at The Africa Institute, has secured First Place at the AI for Sustainability Hackathon 2026, organized by Canadian University Dubai and supported by the American Society of Engineers.
Ahmed led the team alongside environmental specialist Tasneem Siedahmed and computer scientist Mohamed Alkassem, whose combined expertise in environmental science, computer science, and global development was central to their success.
The global competition brought together hundreds of teams from around the world, all focused on addressing critical sustainability challenges through Artificial Intelligence. The Hackathon was conducted online in two rounds: an initial idea and PPT submission on February 9, 2026, followed by an online presentation in the final round from February 14–16, 2026. The team distinguished itself through innovation, technical strength, and real-world applicability.
Their winning project, “Shamsi”, applies AI to optimize solar energy systems, using intelligent energy management and climate-responsive solutions. Designed to tackle pressing solar energy and environmental challenges, the project demonstrates how Artificial Intelligence can deliver scalable, sustainable, and impactful energy solutions.
As team leader, Ahmed collaborated closely with Siedahmed and Alkassem to shape the project’s vision, research direction, and overall strategy. His academic focus and interest in Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) informed the project’s emphasis on practical and globally relevant solutions.
Looking ahead, the team is eager to deploy “Shamsi” and contribute to sustainable development across Africa, the MENA region, and globally. This achievement highlights the role of The Africa Institute in fostering innovation, interdisciplinary collaboration, and practical solutions that make a tangible difference in the world.
Amer Ahmed, a second-year Master of Arts student in Global African Studies, specializing in Diplomacy and Africa’s International Relations at The Africa Institute, has secured First Place at the AI for Sustainability Hackathon 2026, organized by Canadian University Dubai and supported by the American Society of Engineers.
Amer Ahmed, a second-year Master of Arts student in Global African Studies, specializing in Diplomacy and Africa’s International Relations at The Africa Institute, has secured First Place at the AI for Sustainability Hackathon 2026, organized by Canadian University Dubai and supported by the American Society of Engineers.
Ahmed led the team alongside environmental specialist Tasneem Siedahmed and computer scientist Mohamed Alkassem, whose combined expertise in environmental science, computer science, and global development was central to their success.
The global competition brought together hundreds of teams from around the world, all focused on addressing critical sustainability challenges through Artificial Intelligence. The Hackathon was conducted online in two rounds: an initial idea and PPT submission on February 9, 2026, followed by an online presentation in the final round from February 14–16, 2026. The team distinguished itself through innovation, technical strength, and real-world applicability.
Their winning project, “Shamsi”, applies AI to optimize solar energy systems, using intelligent energy management and climate-responsive solutions. Designed to tackle pressing solar energy and environmental challenges, the project demonstrates how Artificial Intelligence can deliver scalable, sustainable, and impactful energy solutions.
As team leader, Ahmed collaborated closely with Siedahmed and Alkassem to shape the project’s vision, research direction, and overall strategy. His academic focus and interest in Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) informed the project’s emphasis on practical and globally relevant solutions.
Looking ahead, the team is eager to deploy “Shamsi” and contribute to sustainable development across Africa, the MENA region, and globally. This achievement highlights the role of The Africa Institute in fostering innovation, interdisciplinary collaboration, and practical solutions that make a tangible difference in the world.
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