The Aqaba Green Entrepreneurship Hackathon was launched under the patronage of Ramzi Al-Kabariti, Commissioner for Youth and Entrepreneurship at the Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority. The event is part of Global Entrepreneurship Week 2024, organized by the Queen Rania Center for Entrepreneurship at Princess Sumaya University for Technology. The hackathon is supported by the Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority and the Aqaba Governorate Council, in cooperation with the Ministry of Planning and the Royal Scientific Society through the Irada initiative, which aims to promote innovative ideas for sustainable environmental solutions.

Al-Kabariti emphasized the importance of the hackathon in empowering youth and developing their skills. He noted that the event provides more than just a competitive platform; it fosters teamwork, creativity, and interpersonal skills.

He also highlighted the Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority’s commitment to supporting youth initiatives, aligning with its strategy to empower students, professionals, entrepreneurs, and innovators. The Authority aims to create an environment that encourages young people to develop ideas contributing to sustainable development in renewable energy, waste management, urban planning, and climate change solutions.

Prof. Wejdan Abu Elhaija, President of Princess Sumaya University for Technology, highlighted the university’s commitment to aligning its programs with sustainable development goals and supporting the community by providing job opportunities for young people, helping drive economic growth.

Abu Elhaija added that since its founding, the Queen Rania Center for Entrepreneurship has focused on raising awareness among youth and the local community and improving quality of life by promoting sustainable practices that protect natural resources for future generations.

Mohammad Obeidat, Director of the Queen Rania Center for Entrepreneurship, described the hackathon as a unique chance for young people to showcase their creativity and turn their ideas into viable projects. He emphasized that the event strengthens youth competitiveness in the job market and advances sustainable development.

Obeidat added that the first-place winner will receive a cash prize to help launch their project and improve its economic potential, along with specialized training in entrepreneurship. Projects will be incubated by the Royal Scientific Society and the Irada program. Participants will also have the chance to present their ideas to potential employers for further support.

Notably, Global Entrepreneurship Week 2024 activities, organized by the Queen Rania Center for Entrepreneurship in its 16th edition, include lectures, workshops, and opportunities to connect and expand professional networks in entrepreneurship and innovation.