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DI-Hack – Facilitating a Tech-Enabled World for All

Mon, 11 Nov 2024 Source: Thomas Tetteh

The 2024 Disability Inclusive Hackathon (DI-Hack) took place from October 23 to 25, at the Ghana Civil Aviation Training Academy in Accra and brought together nine talented teams from across Ghana to develop practical and impactful solutions.

The theme, "Leveraging Technology for an Inclusive, Accessible, and Sustainable World," set the stage for a competition that pushed the boundaries of technological innovation. Teams of three participants, including at least one person with a disability, were challenged to create solutions that could significantly improve the quality of life for millions of Ghanaians living with disabilities.

Team Codecraft Mavericks emerged as the ultimate winners, impressing the judges with their AI-powered assistive technology. This groundbreaking solution, equipped with a range of features including text extraction, object detection, navigation, virtual assistance, and companionship, aims to enhance the independence of visually impaired individuals.

Teams HandWave and Soronko were adjudged the first and second runners-up, respectively, with their impressive technological solutions. 

Dr. Emefa Priscilla Amenyah Kove, representing the Inclusive Tech Group, called on governmental and non-governmental organizations to lend their support to DI-Hack. She said such an initiative is crucial in fostering innovative solutions to address the unique challenges of persons with disabilities. She highlighted the urgent need for funding to empower winning teams to transform their innovative prototypes into viable commercial ventures. By doing so, we can equip disabled communities with the tools and opportunities they need to lead more independent lives, enhance their employability, and ultimately contribute to a society that is truly inclusive for all.

DI-Hack 2024 hosted by the Inclusive Tech Group (ITG) and sponsored by Google, PwC, and IEEE Ghana Section, has once again solidified its position as a pivotal platform for collaboration between tech innovators and persons with disabilities.

By fostering innovation and empowering individuals, the event continues to drive positive change and shape a more inclusive future for Ghana.

Source: Thomas Tetteh