Young Innovators Mobilize Artificial Intelligence for Inclusion at the “Together for the Future” Hackathon
The National Hackathon “Together for the Future” concluded successfully on February 7, bringing together young innovators from across Morocco to explore how artificial intelligence can be used for positive social impact.
About the Hackathon
The National Hackathon “Together for the Future” marked the culmination of several weeks of learning, collaboration, and innovation aimed at empowering young people to use artificial intelligence for positive social impact. Organized within the framework of the two-year international project “Generative AI”, the initiative sought to equip NGOs, youth workers, and young people with the digital and critical skills necessary to navigate and actively shape an increasingly AI-driven society.
A total of 30 participants were selected from more than 450 applications, reflecting the strong interest among young people in engaging with emerging technologies and addressing pressing societal challenges such as hate speech, misinformation, and online discrimination.
Artificial Intelligence for Inclusion and Democratic Values
As artificial intelligence continues to transform communication, work, and social interactions, initiatives like this hackathon emphasize the importance of using these technologies responsibly. By encouraging young people to explore innovative ways of applying AI to promote peace, inclusion, and critical thinking, the project contributes to building a digital culture where technology serves democratic participation and social cohesion rather than division.
Training Journey
The hackathon was preceded by an intensive learning journey designed to prepare participants with both technical knowledge and leadership skills.
- AI for Social Good introduced artificial intelligence as a tool to address social challenges and prevent harmful online content.
- Design Thinking for Change encouraged creative, human-centered approaches to solving real social needs.
- Emotional Intelligence and Inner Leadership focused on self-awareness, collaboration, and leadership capacities.
- Digital Storytelling and Ethical Communication highlighted the importance of responsible online narratives and positive digital storytelling.
- From Idea to Prototype and Pitching helped participants transform ideas into concrete concepts and pitch them effectively.
Mentorship and Final Pitch Day
After the initial in-person workshops held on January 10 and 11, participants continued refining their concepts through an online follow-up and mentorship session organized on January 31.
The journey culminated on February 7 with the final Pitch Day, where participants presented innovative solutions that harness artificial intelligence to counter hate speech, challenge online discrimination, and foster more inclusive digital communities.
Impact and Objectives Achieved
Through this multi-stage process, the hackathon successfully achieved its core objectives: fostering innovation in the use of AI to combat hate speech and harmful online narratives, strengthening collaboration between civil society organizations, youth workers, educators, and digital experts, and empowering young people to become active changemakers in shaping a respectful and responsible digital culture.
Beyond the competition itself, the hackathon created a vibrant environment for exchange and networking, allowing participants to connect, learn from one another, and build relationships that may lead to future collaborations. Their enthusiasm and creativity demonstrated the growing role that young people can play in shaping ethical and socially responsible uses of artificial intelligence.
Looking Ahead
The most promising participants now have the opportunity to represent Morocco at the International Hackathon in Italy, where they will join young innovators from other partner countries involved in the Generative AI project. This next stage will further strengthen international cooperation and showcase the ideas developed by Moroccan youth on a global platform.
As the project continues over the coming months, it will build on the momentum created by the hackathon through additional activities, collaborations, and learning opportunities. By combining innovation, education, and youth engagement, the Generative AI initiative aims to ensure that artificial intelligence becomes not only a technological advancement but also a powerful instrument for promoting peace, inclusion, and democratic values in the digital world.
