The College of Computer and Information Sciences, represented by the Artificial Intelligence Center at Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, in cooperation with Elm Company, announced the opening of registration for the first edition of the “Thakathon” hackathon to develop innovative solutions using artificial intelligence technologies specialized in Arabic natural language processing, targeting students and alumnae of the university. Registration will continue until Thursday, 5 March 2026. The hackathon aims to encourage innovation in artificial intelligence technologies and their various applications, discover promising talents and integrate them into the innovation and applied research ecosystem, and enhance smart Arabic content through developing solutions that support the Arabic language using advanced technologies. “Thakathon” is based on two main phases: the first phase involves idea formulation, while the second focuses on transforming ideas into applicable prototypes, across diverse tracks including Hajj and Umrah, education, law, tourism, culture, and health. The hackathon serves as an innovation platform that seeks to transform participants’ ideas into products that serve society through an applied educational environment that includes workshops, mentoring sessions, and technical support from specialized experts, leading to judging stages and project presentations. The Director of the Artificial Intelligence Center at the College of Computer and Information Sciences, Dr. Shorouq Al-Sannan, explained that launching the “Thakathon” hackathon represents a qualitative step for the AI Center by empowering students and alumnae to transform knowledge into technological solutions with sustainable impact. The launch of “Thakathon” comes within the efforts of the College of Computer and Information Sciences at Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University to strengthen strategic partnerships, support research and innovation, and contribute to preparing national competencies capable of employing modern technologies to address societal challenges. For more information about the hackathon and registration mechanism, the following link can be visited: Click here.