HP Inc. recently concluded its GameOn with HP Gaming Garage hackathon, an initiative aimed at fostering creativity and innovation among young aspiring game developers in the UAE. Held at the HP Gaming Garage Lab at Rochester University in Dubai, the event saw several teams showcase their culturally-inspired game projects.
The hackathon, open to students aged 13-18 who completed 70% of the free HP Gaming Garage online courses in Game Development and Esports Management, culminated in Dubai Gem Private School, GEMS Wellington Academy School – Silicon Oasis, GEMS Founders School, and Barsha emerging as winners for their innovative creations.
Peter Oganesean, Managing Director Middle East and East Africa at HP, highlighted the UAE’s burgeoning gaming market and the importance of empowering young talent in this field. The hackathon serves as a platform for students to not only demonstrate their technical skills but also celebrate their cultural heritage through gaming.
The HP Gaming Garage initiative, backed by HP, offers free online courses in multiple languages, including English and Arabic, to equip learners with the necessary skills to thrive in the gaming and esports industries. The GameOn hackathon further complements this initiative by providing students with hands-on experience and mentorship opportunities.
In collaboration with AMD, HP established the HP Gaming Garage Lab at Rochester Institute of Technology, Dubai, in 2021. This state-of-the-art facility provides students with cutting-edge gaming equipment, industry connections, and a space to learn and create.
The winning teams of this year’s hackathon were selected by a panel of experts from the gaming, education, and technology sectors. They received valuable prizes, recognition, and mentorship opportunities from HP experts.
HP’s commitment to accelerating digital equity is evident through initiatives like the Gaming Garage. By empowering young individuals with the necessary skills and resources, HP aims to contribute to the growth of the gaming industry in the UAE and beyond.
