KIGALI, Dec. 3 (Xinhua) -- UNLEASH, a global innovation platform, has convened 1,000 youth from around the world for a week-long innovation lab held in the Rwandan capital, Kigali, with the aim of collaboratively addressing global challenges and contributing to sustainable solutions for the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The innovation event, running from Dec. 2 to Dec. 8, brought together young people from 136 countries, including 100 refugees based in Rwanda.
At the opening of the event, Rwandan Prime Minister Edouard Ngirente emphasized the pivotal role of innovation in driving Rwanda's growth. He highlighted its significance in addressing socio-economic challenges and fostering job creation for accelerated development.
The kickoff event set the stage for a week of intensive collaboration, culminating in the Solutions Festival and Hanga Pitchfest 2023, Rwanda's largest in-person technology event, where top finalists will pitch their prototypes.
Rwandan Minister of ICT and Innovation, Paula Ingabire, said it is the honor of Rwanda in hosting UNLEASH's first innovation lab in Africa, stressing the importance of diversity, innovation and human-centered design in creating impactful global solutions.
UNLEASH Chairperson Flemming Besenbacher said that hosting the innovation lab in Rwanda provides a platform for youth worldwide to jointly create solutions for a sustainable future.
In collaboration with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, UNLEASH included 100 refugees based in Rwanda in the program, enhancing diversity and global representation.
UNLEASH has engaged 7,000 young talents from 172 countries through previous innovation labs held in various locations worldwide. This marks its inaugural event in Africa, reaffirming its commitment to fostering innovation on a global scale. ■