During their participation at the hackathon last week which was held at KAUST University, "JUNCTIONxKAUST", the students of the College of Computer and Information Systems at Umm Al-Qura University highlighted their software and computer capabilities and their creativity in the fields of programming by providing technical solutions in the fields of food, energy and water for Neom.

The number of students participating was 10 male and female students from the departments of the College of Computer and Information Systems. They were nominated out of 1200 applicants from various universities in the Saudi Kingdom to become among the 200 participants. One of the college female students was part of the "Arks" team which achieved second rank, and which was able to provide solutions to the water challenges in Neom by controlling the water leakage problem to maintain it.

The student Emad Nur Batwa stated that their participation was a result of the support of the university and the college management to show their talents, and practical and educational abilities. He stressed that these participations work to enrich their experience. He also expressed his thanks to His Excellency the UQU President, Prof. Abdullah bin Omar Bafail, and the university vice presidents and vice deans.

The participating male and female students included: Emad Nur Batwa, Muhammad Saeed Al-Zahrani, Ayman Humaid Qayid, Zikra Faisal Abu Humaid, Hanan Hamid Al-Harbi, Arwa Arshad Aziz, Dina Salim Balqasim, Salma Mursil, Amal Salim, Maymunah Muhammad Habibullah, and Rahaf Abdul-Wahid Shaqdar.

The Dean of the College of Computer and Information Systems, Dr. Majid Al-Qathami, pointed out that they seek to prepare cadres who are qualified both scientifically and in research, to contribute to the technical development and knowledge economy, and to serve the community as well as the pilgrims of Hajj and Umrah. They also seek to be one of the best Arab colleges in computer sciences, and work on developing programs and plans as well as improving the technical skills of the students for them to be qualified for local and international competition.