The Central Bank of Egypt (CBE) and the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT) have launched the ‘AI for FinTech’ Hackathon under the umbrella of FinTech Egypt, as part of their joint efforts to enhance youth skills through the Digital Egypt Builders Initiative (DEBI).
The hackathon is designed to equip DEBI students with the tools and expertise to tackle real-world banking challenges using artificial intelligence, data analytics, and advanced programming. It supports Egypt’s broader digital transformation strategy and aims to cultivate a generation of innovators capable of driving the country’s FinTech evolution.
During the hackathon’s graduation ceremony, participants presented their AI-driven financial solutions before a panel of experts and industry leaders. The event was attended by Ayman Hussein, First Sub-Governor for the Information Technology Sector at the CBE; Hoda Baraka, Advisor to the ICT Minister for Technology Talents Development; and Afdal Naguib, CEO and Managing Director of saib Bank.
Hussein highlighted that the hackathon reflects the strategic collaboration between the CBE and MCIT, aligning with the CBE’s FinTech and Innovation Strategy, which prioritizes talent development as a key pillar. “Empowering youth with the technical and practical expertise to compete globally is central to our vision,” he said.
Baraka emphasized the importance of synergy between state institutions, academia, and the private sector to nurture tech-savvy professionals capable of leading Egypt’s digital economy. She noted that initiatives like this bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical innovation.
Afdal Naguib described the hackathon as a transformative opportunity for DEBI students to gain hands-on experience addressing real banking challenges. Winning teams will receive financial support, professional mentorship, and employment opportunities to advance their projects within Egypt’s financial ecosystem.
The ‘AI for FinTech’ Hackathon marks a significant milestone in the CBE–MCIT partnership, reaffirming Egypt’s position as a regional hub for FinTech innovation and digital talent development.
