SALALAH: Young innovators from across the Arab world gathered in Dhofar to turn environmental challenges into practical ideas and potential solutions as the second edition of the Talinko International Environmental Hackathon, Youth Ecothon 2026, concluded recently.
The hackathon brought together young talents around a common goal of empowering youth to become active contributors to a more sustainable and innovative future.
Speaking to the Observer, Eng Ahmed bin Said al Ghafri, Chief Executive Officer of Talinko Global for Talents and Innovations, said environmental challenges were no longer distant concerns but issues directly affecting economies, food and water security, energy and quality of life.
He highlighted the role of technology and innovation in developing practical responses to these challenges while creating new economic opportunities and future jobs.
Al Ghafri said Youth Ecothon was conceived as more than a competition, providing an environment where ideas could be developed and innovators connected with experts, institutions and opportunities that could help transform their concepts into sustainable projects.
“The recognition platform should not be the end of an innovator’s journey, but the beginning,” he said.
The second edition also introduced the Muscat University Award for Environmental Innovations, aimed at encouraging young people to develop solutions with scientific, economic and societal value. The award reflects Muscat University’s focus on innovation and entrepreneurship and its efforts to help young people turn ideas into viable projects.
The international character of the hackathon was reflected in its participation figures, with 193 participants from 22 Arab countries entering the initial selection process. Following screening, 28 participants were shortlisted, with 20 advancing to compete for the top positions.
Talinko Global for Talents and Innovations operates as an international network connecting expertise, talent and innovation, with a database that includes scientists and specialists from across the Arab world. Its digital platform has attracted more than four million visitors and registered over 26,000 talented individuals and innovators.
At the conclusion of the hackathon, the EcoShield team claimed first place and a cash prize of RO 1,000, while Green Drop secured second place and RO 600. Magnbio took third place and received RO 400.
The winning projects reflected participants’ efforts to develop innovative and practical approaches to addressing environmental challenges.
The ceremony also recognised the institutions supporting Youth Ecothon 2026, including Muscat University, the strategic academic partner and sponsor for the second consecutive year; Oman India Fertiliser Company (OMIFCO), the Platinum Sponsor; and Dhofar Municipality, the Diamond Sponsor and sponsor for the second consecutive year.
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