The One Circle initiative has announced the launch of The One Circle ICT Reboot Ideathon, a competition aimed at engaging youth and innovators in proposing practical ideas that support circular economy practices within the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) sector, with a primary focus on electronic waste recycling, device refurbishment, and reuse.
The competition comes as part of the One Circle project, launched in 2023. One Circle is a national initiative that supports Egypt’s transition toward a circular economy in the ICT and electronics sector. The initiative is part of the global “Switch to Circular Economy Value Chains” project, co-funded by the European Union and the Government of Finland, and led by UNIDO in partnership with Orange, Nokia, and Cordon, with local support from E-Tadweer and the Haya Karima Foundation. Through this global framework, the initiative aims to build a strong alliance of local and international partners to promote a more sustainable and responsible development model that delivers long-term benefits for both society and the environment.
The ideathon aims to engage Egyptian citizens and relevant stakeholders in developing new, practical solutions that enhance sustainability within the ICT sector, reduce the environmental impact of electronic waste, promote responsible practices, and extend the lifespan of electronic devices.
Participants are required to develop and present innovative ideas only, without the need to build technical prototypes or deliver fully implemented programs. The ideathon focuses on three main tracks:
Reuse and refurbishment of devices, through ideas that encourage repair and maintenance instead of disposal.
Smart electronic waste management, via technological solutions that promote collection and recycling.
Sustainable technology design, aimed at developing longer-lasting devices that are easier to repair and made using environmentally friendly materials.
The competition brings together university students and young professionals aged 18–25 from across Egypt, competing in teams of 2 members.
Interested teams can apply through the official online application form, where submitted ideas will be reviewed online by a jury of partner representatives, including Orange, Upgrade, E-Tadweer, based on key criteria such as innovation, sustainability, impact, and gender balance.
The competition will conclude with a closing ceremony and awards presentation on January 15, 2026, in Cairo.
Top-performing teams will be rewarded with one-month internship opportunities at One Circle partner organizations, providing hands-on experience in the green ICT sector.
The One Circle ICT Reboot Ideathon represents a new step toward empowering youth and supporting green innovation, contributing to Egypt’s transition toward a more sustainable and inclusive circular economy.
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