Young innovators from across the Arab world convened in Dhofar at the end of August for the second edition of the Talinko International Environmental Hackathon, Youth Ecothon 2026, aiming to transform environmental challenges into actionable solutions. The event sought to empower youth as active contributors to sustainability and technological innovation.
Organized by Talinko Global for Talents and Innovations, the hackathon attracted 193 participants from 22 countries, initially competing through a selection process that narrowed the field to 28, with 20 finalists advancing to the final stage. The competition provided not only a platform for presenting ideas but also opportunities for participants to connect with experts, institutions, and potential investors to further develop their projects.
Ahmed bin Said al Ghafri, Chief Executive Officer of Talinko Global, emphasized that environmental issues have become immediate concerns impacting economies, food and water security, energy resources, and overall quality of life. He underscored the significance of leveraging technology and innovation to address these challenges while simultaneously creating economic growth and job opportunities. According to al Ghafri, the hackathon is designed to extend beyond competition recognition, acting as a springboard for innovators to turn their ideas into sustainable ventures.
This year, the event also introduced the Muscat University Award for Environmental Innovations, recognizing projects with scientific, economic, and social value. The award aligns with Muscat University’s commitment to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship among youth.
At the conclusion of the hackathon, the EcoShield team was awarded first place along with a cash prize of RO 1,000. The Green Drop team secured second place and RO 600, while Magnbio received third place and RO 400. These winning teams showcased innovative approaches aimed at tackling environmental concerns through practical and scalable solutions.
Talinko Global operates an international network linking talent, expertise, and innovation across the Arab region. Its digital platform has attracted over four million visitors and registered more than 26,000 innovators, including scientists and specialists dedicated to addressing regional and global challenges. The Youth Ecothon event reflects ongoing efforts to nurture innovation ecosystems and support the next generation of environmental change-makers in the Arab world.