ULK Students Win Second Place at AI Hackathon

Demonstrating exceptional creativity and technical skill, the ULK team composed of students from the computer science department secured second place and was awarded a cash prize of 500,000 Rwandan Francs (RWF). This achievement highlights the growing capacity of ULK students to compete and excel in high-level innovation environments, showcasing both their technical competence and problem-solving abilities.

During the hackathon, the team developed a Financial Guidance Web Application designed to function as an intelligent financial consultant. The system leverages artificial intelligence to understand user needs and provide personalized financial recommendations, helping individuals make more informed decisions about their spending and financial planning.

A key feature of the application is its integration of web scraping capabilities, enabling it to retrieve real-time product information. This allows the system to suggest relevant items available in local markets such as Simba Supermarket based on users’ preferences, budgets, and specific needs. By connecting financial advice with actual purchasing options, the solution effectively bridges the gap between planning and real-life decision-making.

The success of the students reflects the strong academic foundation provided by ULK, where programs in Computer Science emphasize both theoretical knowledge and practical application. In addition to academic studies, initiatives such as The Gym training programs have played a significant role in equipping students with hands-on experience, critical thinking skills, and the confidence required to perform in competitive environments like hackathons, said Daniel, one of the participants.

The students expressed their gratitude for the continuous support received from the university, noting that their achievement is a direct result of quality education, mentorship, and access to skill-building opportunities. This supportive ecosystem has enabled them to translate classroom knowledge into impactful, real-world solutions.

This accomplishment marks an important milestone not only for the students involved but also for ULK’s commitment to fostering innovation and excellence in technology. By leveraging artificial intelligence to address everyday challenges, ULK students continue to position themselves at the forefront of digital transformation in Rwanda and beyond.