Machakos University 2024 Hackathon Fest
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Machakos University celebrated the exceptional achievements of its students during the 2nd Edition of the Machakos University Hackfest 2024, held from November 5th–7th at the University Luban Workshop. This 3-day event organized in partnership with Machakos University Innovation Club, Microsoft Learn Students Ambassadors, Google Developer Groups on Campus, and Techo-Engineering Association, provided a platform for students from diverse backgrounds to develop sustainable solutions for real-world challenges.
The Hackfest was officially opened by Prof. Stanley Makindi, Acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Research, Innovation, and Linkages, who delivered remarks on behalf of the Vice-Chancellor Prof. Joyce Agalo. Prof. Makindi underscored the critical role of innovation in academia and industry, encouraging participants to embrace collaboration and creative problem-solving throughout the event.
The opening ceremony featured keynote addresses by industry leaders who shared their insights on critical themes impacting modern technology and entrepreneurship. Eng. James Nyamai delivered an engaging talk on “Reshaping Infrastructure: The Role of Smart Technology in Modern Engineering,” while Mr. Allan Mwangi inspired participants with his talk on “Building Sustainable Startups: Turning Creative Visions into Impactful Ventures.”
This year’s Hackfest, themed “Sustainability in Engineering Technology Solutions,” focused on categories such as Water, Agriculture, Education, Health, Energy, Transportation, and “Out of the Box.” Over 18 teams participated, showcasing AI-driven solutions that highlighted their technical expertise, teamwork, and creativity.
Top Achievements
The competition culminated in three standout teams being recognized for their groundbreaking projects:
1st Place: Phoenix Team
Phoenix Team (Education Category), led by Mr. Kelly Melchir, with their innovative “Classmate” app. This AI-powered educational tool enhances student-lecturer interactions through dual interfaces, announcements, automatic scheduling, AI-assisted revision, progress tracking, and seamless onboarding. The App streamlines communication, enhances revision, and tracks academic progress creating a modern digital learning environment.
2nd Place: Fanaka Farm Team
The Fanaka Farm Team secured second place with an AI-powered agricultural solution aimed at transforming farming for both large- and small-scale farmers. This project addresses key challenges, including poor storage, ineffective post-harvest practices, limited access to farm machinery, and insufficient knowledge of smart farming techniques. armer exploitation. By providing access to modern technologies, equipment rentals, live market connections, and price negotiation support, Fanaka empowers farmers to enhance efficiency and maximize profits.
3rd Place: Great Core Team
Claiming third place, the Great Core Team introduced “Serenity,” an AI-powered mobile application focused on improving mental health care accessibility. Developed to address rising mental health challenges in Kenya, particularly among students, Serenity offers a personalized mental health assistant. It provides users with a safe space for conversations, guidance, and immediate support, making mental health care more accessible and, reducing barriers to getting help.
The MKSU Hackfest 2024, reinforced Machakos University’s commitment to nurturing talent and fostering innovation, ensuring students are well-equipped to address real-world challenges with cutting-edge solutions.
