Regional Water Hackathon 2026 @Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE)

Young innovators and professionals from Central Asia have an exciting opportunity to contribute to solving one of the region’s most pressing challenges—water management. The Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE), together with regional and international partners, has officially opened applications for the Regional Water Hackathon on Water Management, which will take place on 7–8 September 2026 in Samarkand, Uzbekistan.

The two-day event aims to bring together talented young professionals who are passionate about using technology, innovation, and digital tools to address water-related challenges affecting the region. Selected participants will have their travel, accommodation, and meals fully covered by the organizers.

About the Regional Water Hackathon 2026

Water scarcity and inefficient resource management continue to affect many countries in Central Asia. Recognizing the need for innovative solutions, the OSCE is organizing this hackathon to encourage collaboration among young professionals and promote sustainable water governance.

Participants will explore how technology, automation, digital solutions, and precision tools can help improve water management and enhance resilience in water-stressed environments. They will work on real-world problems and develop practical solutions that can strengthen planning, forecasting, and efficient use of water resources.

The event will be held in the historic city of Samarkand, Uzbekistan, on 7–8 September 2026.

Objectives of the Water Hackathon

The Regional Water Hackathon seeks to:

1. Foster innovative and practical solutions to water-related challenges in Central Asia.
2. Provide young professionals with a platform to design and test ideas that can improve water management.
3. Encourage the application of technology and innovation in sustainable water governance.
4. Strengthen resilience and promote cooperation among countries in the region.
5. Support improved planning, forecasting, and resource management.

What Participants Can Expect

Selected participants will benefit from a rich and interactive programme that includes:

Expert-Led Sessions

Participants will engage in presentations and discussions led by experts working in water management and sustainability.

Networking Opportunities

The event will bring together young professionals and specialists from across Central Asia, creating opportunities to exchange ideas and establish professional connections.

Team Collaboration

Participants will work in groups to address real-life water management challenges and co-design practical solutions.

Interactive Activities

The hackathon will feature discussions, group work, and collaborative learning experiences.

Field Visit

Participants will explore practical applications of the water-energy-food nexus through a dedicated field visit.

Who Can Apply?

Applicants must meet the following requirements:

Age Requirement

Applicants must be between 18 and 35 years old.

Nationality

Candidates must be citizens of:

• Kazakhstan
• Kyrgyzstan
• Tajikistan
• Turkmenistan
• Uzbekistan

Educational and Professional Background

Applicants should possess educational qualifications or professional experience in areas such as:

• Water management
• Food systems
• Energy
• Environmental sustainability
• Climate adaptation
• Related disciplines

Experience and Skills

Successful applicants should demonstrate:

• Engagement in relevant fields
• Motivation to participate actively
• Excellent teamwork abilities
• Strong communication skills

Language Requirement

English will be the working language of the event. Therefore, participants should have a good command of written and spoken English.

Application Requirements

Interested applicants are required to submit:

1. Curriculum Vitae (CV)

A CV written in English or Russian.

2. Short Essay (Maximum 250 Words)

Applicants must answer the following question:

“In your view, what role can technology and innovation play in addressing water-related challenges in the region? Please provide a brief example.”

Selection Process

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Since selection is competitive, applicants are strongly encouraged to submit their applications early.

Financial Support

One of the biggest advantages of this opportunity is that the OSCE will fully cover the expenses of selected participants, including:

• International travel costs
• Accommodation
• Meals during the event

This makes the programme highly accessible for young professionals across Central Asia.

Why You Should Apply

Participating in the Regional Water Hackathon offers numerous benefits:

• Gain practical experience in solving real-world challenges.
• Learn from experts and professionals.
• Expand your professional network across Central Asia.
• Enhance your knowledge of sustainable water management.
• Collaborate with peers and innovators.
• Contribute to building resilient and sustainable communities.
• Explore how digital technologies can improve resource management.
• Experience Samarkand, one of Central Asia’s most historic cities.

Application Deadline

28 June 2026

Interested candidates are encouraged to apply as early as possible because applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.

Click here for more information about the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE).

The Regional Water Hackathon 2026 represents a unique opportunity for young professionals in Central Asia to use innovation and technology to address critical water challenges while building networks and gaining practical experience. With full financial support provided by the OSCE, participants will have an excellent platform to develop ideas that can contribute to a more sustainable future for the region.

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