Below are this year challenges under this cluster:
1. Inventory Management System for End User Equipment
This challenge has been provided by Airtel
Airtel currently lacks a centralized system to accurately track and manage end-user devices (laptops, desktops, and mobile phones). This results in poor visibility of asset ownership, device condition, and inefficient issue/return processes, especially in environments with limited or no internet connectivity.
To develop a reliable, user-friendly, and fully offline Windows-based inventory management system that ensures accurate tracking, accountability, and reporting of all end-user equipment.
The system will include a desktop-based GUI application with a local database. Key features will include: asset registration (device details and specifications), assignment and ownership tracking, condition monitoring, issue and return management, and comprehensive reporting (by date, department, device type, and status). It will also support search, filtering, and audit history of asset movements.
Improved asset accountability and transparency, faster and more efficient equipment tracking, accurate and timely reporting, minimized risk of asset loss or mismanagement, and enhanced operational efficiency in asset handling.
2. Development of a Smart City Training Laboratory for TVET Institutions
This challenge has been provided by De Lorenzo
TVET institutions currently lack practical, affordable, and scalable training environments that allow students to learn and experiment with real-world/simulate smart city technologies (such as IoT systems, smart traffic, and intelligent infrastructure). This limits hands-on skills development and interdisciplinary learning required for modern smart city careers.
To design and develop an innovative, modular, and scalable smart city training laboratory (prototype or concept) that enables practical learning, simulation, and skills development in smart infrastructure technologies.
The solution will include a modular smart city lab setup integrating key components such as smart lighting systems, intelligent traffic management, IoT-based monitoring (sensors and data dashboards), and interconnected subsystems. It will also include structured training modules, simulation scenarios, and hands-on exercises aligned with TVET curricula, allowing students to design, test, and analyze smart city solutions.
The project will enhance practical and industry-relevant skills among TVET students, improve readiness for careers in smart infrastructure and IoT, and strengthen hands-on experiential learning. It will also create opportunities for innovation, research, and the development of market-ready training solutions that can be commercialized and scaled across TVET markets.
3. AI-based Solutions to Fight Vandalism in Power Infrastructure
This challenge has been provided by REG
Power infrastructure (such as transmission towers, cables, and substations) is frequently targeted by theft and vandalism, particularly involving metallic components. This leads to power outages, costly repairs, safety risks, and significant operational losses. Currently, there is limited real-time monitoring and delayed response to such incidents.
To develop an intelligent AI-based system capable of detecting vandalism activities in real-time, accurately identifying affected locations, and automatically triggering alerts to enable rapid response and prevention.
The system will include: AI-powered video surveillance and/or sensor-based monitoring (e.g., motion, vibration, intrusion detection), real-time data processing, and anomaly detection models. It will provide precise GPS-based location tracking, instant alerts (SMS, dashboard, or mobile app), and a centralized monitoring interface. The solution should be deployable on power infrastructure sites and operate reliably in remote environments.
Significant reduction in vandalism and theft-related losses, improved security and reliability of the electricity grid, faster incident detection and response, enhanced safety, and better operational efficiency through proactive infrastructure monitoring.