The One Circle initiative has officially launched the One Circle ICT Reboot Ideathon, a competition designed to engage youth and innovators in proposing practical solutions that advance circular economy practices in Egypt’s ICT sector. The ideathon primarily focuses on e-waste recycling, device refurbishment, and sustainable reuse of electronic devices.
Supporting Egypt’s Circular Economy Transition
The competition is part of the One Circle project, launched in 2023 as a national initiative supporting Egypt’s shift toward a circular economy in the ICT and electronics sectors. One Circle operates within the framework of the global “Switch to Circular Economy Value Chains” (SWITCH2CE) project, co-funded by the European Union and the Government of Finland, and implemented by UNIDO in partnership with Orange, Nokia, and Cordon, with local support from E-Tadweer and the Haya Karima Foundation.
Through this global collaboration, One Circle seeks to establish a strong alliance of local and international partners to promote sustainable and responsible development models, delivering long-term benefits to both society and the environment.
Ideathon Tracks: Innovation for Sustainability
The competition invites Egyptian youth and relevant stakeholders to develop innovative ideas that enhance sustainability in the ICT sector, reduce the environmental impact of electronic waste, and extend the lifespan of devices. Participants are required to submit ideas only—no technical prototypes or fully implemented solutions are necessary.
The ideathon covers three main tracks:
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Device Reuse and Refurbishment – ideas that encourage repairing and maintaining devices instead of disposal.
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Smart E-Waste Management – technological solutions for efficient collection and recycling of electronic waste.
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Sustainable Technology Design – developing longer-lasting, repairable devices made with environmentally friendly materials.
Participation, Application, and Judging
The competition is open to university students and young professionals aged 18–25 from across Egypt, competing in teams of two members. Teams can apply via the official online application form, and submissions will be evaluated by a jury of partners, including Orange, Upgrade, and E-Tadweer, based on innovation, sustainability, impact, and gender balance.
Awards and Internship Opportunities
The ideathon will culminate in a closing ceremony and awards presentation on January 15, 2026, in Cairo. Top-performing teams will receive one-month internships with One Circle partner organizations, gaining hands-on experience in the green ICT sector.
Empowering Youth and Driving Green Innovation
The One Circle ICT Reboot Ideathon represents a major step toward youth empowerment and fostering green technology innovation, contributing to Egypt’s transition toward a more sustainable and inclusive circular economy. By encouraging practical solutions to e-waste challenges, the initiative supports responsible practices, promotes eco-friendly technology, and strengthens Egypt’s position as a leader in the regional ICT and sustainability sector.