Denodo University Challenge opens for global AI & data contest

Registration has opened for the Denodo University Challenge, inviting students globally to tackle real-world data integration and AI application problems.

The University Challenge is part of the Denodo Academic Program, which offers virtual, self-paced training modules, live workshops and access to the Denodo Platform and Denodo AI SDK. The initiative aims to equip students with practical skills in data and analytics, and has been running since 2023.

AI-driven solutions

This year's competition places a focus on developing AI-driven solutions with demonstrable real-world impact, particularly in addressing social and economic issues. Students are encouraged to use data management and artificial intelligence tools to build projects showcasing new approaches to current challenges.

The competition has been designed around the release of Denodo Platform 9.1, which included features to help ease the process of developing AI applications. These features include Denodo Assistant, which automates data engineering tasks and provides contextualised insights, as well as the Denodo AI SDK that supports data embedding, transformation and orchestration. This is intended to help developers prioritise building outcomes rather than managing technical complexities.

Competition format

Students participating in the Challenge will progress through the phases typical to data projects: Integrate, Manage and Deliver. In the Integrate phase, they will use Denodo Express, the free version of Denodo Platform, to connect datasets and generate virtual views. In the Manage phase, teams are tasked with developing data governance strategies and designing the architecture of their AI solutions. The final Deliver phase asks participants to implement their AI solutions addressing a particular challenge. Teams will be evaluated based on their proficiency in integrating, managing, and delivering the data efficiently to create an AI solution to a tangible issue.

Alberto Pan, Chief Technology Officer at Denodo, commented on the competition and the capabilities of the platform:

"With the Denodo Platform, developers can seamlessly create powerful AI applications without the usual hurdles of data preparation. This University Challenge is an exciting opportunity to witness the innovative solutions students will develop. I am eager to see how they leverage our tools to drive real-world impact and showcase the transformative power of AI."

Assessment and prizes

The Challenge is open to students from any university around the world. Teams of participants will be judged on the originality, impact and practical implementation of their projects. The three top-performing teams are set to receive prizes, as is the university that enters the highest number of teams.

Winners will be granted access to unlimited on-demand Denodo training courses and certification exams for six months, which are valued at up to $7,000. In addition, each winning team member will receive an exclusive Denodo Winner Badge, intended to communicate proficiency to prospective employers, as well as an invitation to assist at a Denodo event such as DataFest.

Registration period

Registration for the Denodo University Challenge remains open until 16 November. The competition builds on Denodo's stated belief in the role of artificial intelligence in finding new solutions for social and economic challenges.

The Denodo Academic Program has been established to prepare students to become data and analytics professionals, providing them with experience on tools current in the field. With initiatives such as the University Challenge, Denodo aims to drive awareness and practical competence among the next generation of data experts.