Kathmandu University has announced its fourth annual hackathon, KU HackFest 2024, scheduled for November 15-17. The event marks Nepal’s fourth official collaboration with Major League Hacking (MLH), signaling the country’s expanding footprint in the global tech community.
The 48-hour physical hackathon, organized by Kathmandu University Computer Club, expects to host more than 160 participants, making it one of the largest tech events in the region. This year’s focus spans emerging technologies including blockchain, AR/VR, cloud computing, IoT, and ML/AI.
KU HackFest’s evolution mirrors Nepal’s growing tech maturity. What began in 2021 as the country’s first digital hackathon—drawing 613 participants from 29 countries—has transformed into a comprehensive in-person event. The 2022 edition pioneered Nepal’s first hybrid format, while 2023 set records as the country’s largest physical hackathon with 197 participants forming 50 teams.
Why join KU HackFest 2024 ?
The event comes at a crucial time when Nepal’s tech sector is seeking to boost its talent pool and startup ecosystem. Unlike traditional hackathons, KU HackFest 2024 emphasizes practical business solutions and minimum viable products (MVPs), potentially creating a pipeline for new tech ventures in the region.
The organizers have structured the event to attract a diverse range of participants, from high school students to recent graduates with up to one year of industry experience. This inclusive approach aims to bridge the gap between academic learning and industry requirements in fields such as computer science, IT, and electrical engineering.
The event offers various engagement tiers for technology companies, from diamond-level sponsorships to community partnerships, reflecting the growing corporate interest in Nepal’s tech talent pool. Sponsors will have opportunities for recruitment, brand visibility, and direct engagement with participants through workshops and career fairs.
As Southeast Asian tech hubs like Singapore and Bangladesh continue to grow, events like KU HackFest position Nepal as an emerging player in the regional tech landscape. The involvement of MLH, which organizes student hackathons globally, adds international credibility to the event.
The three-day event will include technical workshops, mentoring sessions, and networking opportunities, culminating in a project showcase and awards ceremony. Participants will have access to industry mentors throughout the event, providing guidance on both technical implementation and business viability.
Event Details
- November 15-17, 2024
- Kathmandu University, Dhulikhel, Nepal
- Open to students and recent graduates
- www.kuhackfest.com
- [email protected]
For tech companies and potential sponsors interested in engaging with Nepal’s next generation of developers, the event provides various partnership opportunities, with sponsorship tiers ranging from $165 to $490 and above.
