How a Bangladeshi hackathon is inspiring a generation

In July 2024, young coders from across Bangladesh and its Diaspora logged in to participate in HackCSB, the country’s first large-scale international hackathon conducted entirely online.

Organized by Coding Shikhbe Bangladesh (CSB), the event aimed to address a critical challenge in the nation’s growing tech sector: the gap between academic training and industry demands.

The hackathon was more than just a competition; it was a reflection of the shifting landscape of tech education in Bangladesh. Participants were drawn by the opportunity to work on real-world problems, learn from experienced mentors and judges from Google, YC, Stanford, etc, and compete for a Tk 60,000 prize pool, all from the comfort of their homes.

HackCSB offered participants more than just the thrill of competition. The event provided access to personalised mentorship from top Bangladeshi professionals who had once been in their shoes. Workshops were organised, particularly benefiting complete beginners who sought to sharpen their skills. Some participants will have the chance to secure remote internships with American companies, an opportunity that underscored the event’s commitment to bridging the gap between academic learning and industry readiness.

The motivation behind HackCSB stems from the personal journey of its founder, Mostofa Adib Shakib. Having experienced the challenges of transitioning from academic settings to the professional world, Shakib recognised the need for a platform where young tech enthusiasts could develop the practical skills often missing in traditional education. His vision for HackCSB was to create a space where students could collaborate, innovate, and prepare themselves for the global tech industry.

Shakib’s motivation resonated with many participants. Sidratul Muntaha, a student from Chittagong University of Engineering and Technology, shared her expectations: “I’m here to learn new skills, meet fellow coders, and work alongside some brilliant mentors.”

Her words echoed the sentiments of many who saw the event as a crucial step towards gaining the hands-on experience necessary for their future careers.

Nagiur Rahaman, a Bangladeshi student studying in China, described his experience as “amazing, filled with innovation, collaboration, and learning.” For him and others, HackCSB offered more than just a competitive edge – it provided the practical experience that traditional academic settings often lack.

HackCSB’s impact goes beyond its participants. It highlights a growing movement in Bangladesh to bridge the gap between academia and industry, equipping the next generation of tech professionals with the skills needed to thrive in a global market. However, the journey is ongoing.

While events like HackCSB are essential, they are just one piece of the puzzle in transforming Bangladesh’s tech education landscape.

As Bangladesh continues its journey toward becoming a global tech hub, the success of initiatives like HackCSB will play a crucial role in shaping the country’s future. For the hundreds of coders who participated, the hackathon was not just an event but a stepping stone toward a more connected and promising future in technology.