Google supports the next generation of hackers
Jugend Hackt is a successfully established hackathon supported by Google aimed at teenagers all over Germany. Using open-source data, children and teenagers work together to refine prototypes, digital tools and concepts of their vision for a better society. They are accompanied by volunteers and tech-savvy mentors during the event.
Google has been funding Jugend Hackt since its launch in 2013, and also supplies the event with technical equipment whenever there are shortages. Loic, a student from Hamburg, says, “Jugend Hackt has definitely changed my view. Since attending the hackathon, I don’t give up as easily as I used to. I am now willing to work for days or sometimes even weeks on a problem.” The goals of Jugend Hackt are to boost teenagers’ coding interests and raise awareness of their capacity to solve real-world problems by honing their abilities.
One example of this is an intelligent waste bin: it signals when it’s full via sensors to facilitate the work of waste management personnel. Another project developed by Jugend Hackt participants is ‘Germany Says Welcome’, a mobile and desktop app which helps immigrants understand the complex German immigration system. Jugend Hackt is held every year and is open to anyone with basic programming skills.
Jugend Hackt has definitely changed my view. Since attending the hackathon, I don’t give up as easily as I used to. I am now willing to work for days or sometimes even weeks on a problem.