Don't be AIfraid!
"Don’t be AIfraid" is an innovative hackathon designed for high school students who want to challenge themselves with the fascinating world of artificial intelligence. The initiative is not just a competition but a complete learning journey. One week before the hackathon, participants will attend an introductory event where AI experts, researchers, and professionals will present a variety of real-world use cases. From healthcare to education, from sustainability to everyday digital services, these examples will provide inspiration and demonstrate how AI can generate positive impact in society.
During the hackathon, teams of students will work together to design and prototype AI-based applications that can make daily life easier, safer, or more enjoyable. Creativity, critical thinking, and teamwork will be key elements in transforming ideas into concrete solutions. Mentors and coaches will support the students, guiding them in problem-solving, design thinking, and the responsible use of AI tools.
At the end of the challenge, projects will be presented to a jury of experts, who will evaluate them based on innovation, feasibility, and potential social benefit. The hackathon represents a unique opportunity for young people to experiment, learn, and imagine the future, overcoming the fear of artificial intelligence and discovering its potential as a powerful ally for humanity.
The address for this blended online-onsite hackathon is: IISS "S. Trinchese" Martano - Via prolung. piazza Gramsci - 73025 MARTANO (LE)
Questions?
alessandro.persano@weavesrl.com
Who can join?
14 - 15 NOV 2025
Register by 07 NOVLanguage(s) of the hackathon
Italian, English
Blended
Martano - Italy
AI and Emerging Technologies for Education
Challenge and goals
The primary goal of “Don’t be AIfraid” is to empower high school students with the knowledge, confidence, and creativity to approach artificial intelligence not as something intimidating, but as a powerful tool for positive change. By engaging them in a dynamic and collaborative hackathon, the initiative aims to demystify AI, foster curiosity, and promote responsible innovation.
A first outcome is awareness: through the preparatory session held one week before the hackathon, students will gain exposure to concrete use cases of AI in diverse fields such as health, education, sustainability, and everyday digital services. This helps them understand the real potential of AI beyond stereotypes or fears, showing how technology can serve people and communities.
The second outcome is skill development: during the hackathon, participants will strengthen problem-solving abilities, teamwork, design thinking, and critical analysis. They will also gain hands-on experience with AI tools and methodologies, learning how to move from an abstract idea to a functional prototype.
A third outcome is innovation: the event will generate original projects aimed at improving daily life, demonstrating how young minds can contribute creative and impactful solutions when given the right support and guidance.
Finally, the hackathon promotes empowerment and future orientation: students will leave with increased confidence in their abilities, a stronger sense of agency in shaping technological futures, and a clearer vision of AI as an ally for building inclusive and sustainable societies.
Expectations and requirements for the solutions and participants
Participants of “Don’t be AIfraid” are expected to bring curiosity, creativity, and a willingness to collaborate. Teams will work together to design AI-driven applications that provide tangible benefits for everyday life. No advanced technical background is required, but basic digital skills and an open mindset will be essential. Students should be ready to explore real-world challenges, think critically, and apply innovative approaches using the tools and guidance provided during the hackathon.
Requirements include forming small teams, attending the preparatory session with experts, and actively engaging throughout the event. Each team is expected to present a prototype and a short pitch to the jury, demonstrating not only technical feasibility but also the social impact of their idea. Respect for teamwork, deadlines, and responsible use of AI will be key to the experience.
Available Support
Throughout “Don’t be AIfraid”, students will be supported by a dedicated network of mentors, coaches, and AI professionals. During the preparatory session, experts will provide clear explanations of real-world use cases and introduce practical tools to help participants approach artificial intelligence with confidence. During the hackathon itself, technical mentors will guide teams in exploring frameworks, data usage, and prototyping methods, while facilitators will assist with teamwork and design thinking. Logistical support, working spaces, and access to resources such as cloud tools or open datasets will also be provided. This structure ensures that every team has the knowledge, materials, and guidance needed to transform creative ideas into viable, impactful solutions.