Dubai, United Arab Emirates – 25 November 2021: At Expo 2020 Dubai, Cisco announced the launch of a UAE-wide competition for university students. ‘Power the Future: The Cisco Sustainability Challenge’ invites young entrepreneurs and environmental advocates to share how technology can accelerate the sustainability agenda and measure its impact.

 

In close alignment with the UAE’s vision to build an innovative, sustainable and green future, Cisco is encouraging students to provide insights into the biggest challenges facing the region. Each participant must identify a challenge, design a solution which leverages technology, and highlight clear impact – focusing on one of four themes: 

 

 

“For the Cisco Sustainability Challenge, we are leveraging our tools and expertise to empower the youth, push the boundaries of innovation and bring our sustainable future to life. Expo 2020 Dubai aspires to be the most sustainable World Expo in history, and with this, serves as a tremendously important platform on which to engage the youth, hear their ideas and make a difference. I am excited to see the submissions in due course and encourage all university students across the UAE to take part in helping to shape a smarter tomorrow,” said Adele Trombetta, Vice President of Customer Experience at Cisco Europe, the Middle East, Africa and Russia.

 

The first stage of the challenge involves a 10-minute pitch deck outlining the challenge, recommended solution and value proposition. Successful candidates will be invited to The Cisco Grove at Expo 2020 Dubai – where they will have the opportunity to present their proposal to a jury of technology, sustainability and business experts. Following the development of a prototype solution, the top 5 innovators will once again present to the jury, detailing their operating model, architecture of the solution and financial analysis.

 

“As the Official Digital Network Partner of Expo 2020 Dubai, Cisco shares a deep understanding and vision with Expo, driving the sustainable innovation agenda. We have experienced Cisco’s technological expertise firsthand and are delighted that they are inviting the UAE’s university students to work with them on this challenge,” said Dina Storey, Director Sustainability Operations, Expo 2020 Dubai. 

 

“Cisco’s purpose is to power an inclusive future for all. We believe that in order to make this possible, people, technology and sustainability must work in harmony. As a technology provider, we have the opportunity and, in many ways, the responsibility to lead this agenda. I am extremely proud of our team for inspiring others and giving their time to nurture young talent. I look forward to seeing the innovations which result from this challenge,” said Wendy Mars, President of Cisco's Europe, Middle East, Africa and Russia region (EMEAR).

 

Winning entries will be publicized by Cisco and Expo 2020 Dubai for wider exposure to the international community, while selected entrants will also receive a 6-month mentorship program from technology experts at Cisco to further build their experience and skillset.