18 February, 2025
From February 13 to 17, 2024, Najat A. Amin, a PhD student at the DESAL Research Group, participated in the Water Hackathon in Riyadh, an initiative organized by the Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture (MEWA). This innovation-driven competition brought together 130 participants to collaborate on developing technology-driven solutions for pressing water sustainability challenges.
Najat’s team focused on enhancing water reuse efficiency in high-consumption service sectors by developing the Smart Filtration System for Washing Machines. The system integrates an Arduino-based water quality monitoring system with a filtration process, allowing for better water conservation and sustainable management.
Najat highlighted the immense value of the experience, stating: "The Water Hackathon was an exciting and enriching experience. A key takeaway was the emphasis on practical feasibility and scalability. Innovation is crucial, but integrating solutions with real-world implementation and policy frameworks enhances their impact."
As she expressed, one of the event’s highlights was the opportunity to discuss the project with Dr. Abdulaziz AlShaibani, Deputy Minister for Water, and Dr. Abdulhameed Al-Eliwi, Deputy Minister for Information Technology and Digital Transformation. Their insights reinforced the importance of digital transformation and smart technologies in advancing sustainable water solutions.
Beyond her own project, Najat found inspiration in the diverse ideas showcased at the hackathon, ranging from AI-driven leak detection systems to nature-based water purification methods, emphasizing the role of collaborative innovation in tackling global water challenges.
The DESAL Research Group is proud to see its researchers actively engaging in impactful initiatives and contributing to the advancement of sustainable water management.
Congratulations to Najat for her participation and dedication to driving innovation in desalination and water sustainability!