The second National AI Hackathon will take place in Samarkand.

The second National AI Hackathon will take place in Samarkand from January 20 to 23, aimed at developing and implementing artificial intelligence technologies in key sectors of the economy and social life in Uzbekistan. The event will bring together developers, analysts, students, and AI specialists from all regions of the country.

The National AI Hackathon is held with the support of the Ministry of Digital Technologies of the Republic of Uzbekistan, the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Innovation, the Ministry of Preschool and School Education, as well as with the participation of IT Park Uzbekistan, AICA, ML Community Uzbekistan, and Uzinfocom. The hackathon's general partner is the national digital ecosystem Uzum, and leading IT companies in the country are also involved in its organization.

During the Samarkand stage, participants will develop AI-based solutions in several priority areas, including healthcare, cybersecurity, education, entrepreneurship, and monitoring and control of the circulation of prohibited substances. Projects will be evaluated by an expert jury based on criteria such as technological maturity, practical applicability, and scalability potential.

The hackathon program includes not only team work on projects but also educational activities. Participants will have access to masterclasses, lectures, and mentoring sessions with industry representatives and AI experts. Winners will receive prizes and the opportunity to further develop their solutions with the support of partners and investors.

The National AI Hackathon is implemented in several stages. The first stage began in October 2025, and regional hackathons are taking place across the country until the end of 2026. The final stage of the project is scheduled for December 2026 in Tashkent, where the best teams will present their developments at the national level.

Team registration for the Samarkand stage is open until January 17. The hackathon will be held at the School 21 campus in Samarkand. Organizers note that the project aims to form a sustainable community of AI specialists and create applied solutions that can contribute to the country's digital transformation.

Source: IT Park Uzbekistan