Weather and Climate Hackathon Concludes at KIIT
The Weather and Climate Hackathon (WATCH), a prestigious event aimed at addressing global challenges related to weather, climate change, and air quality, concluded today at KIIT-DU. It was organized by Bronx Community College of the City University of New York (BCC/CUNY) in collaboration with the US Consulates in Hyderabad and Mumbai.
WATCH brought together students and faculty from 16 higher
education institutions from states such as Goa, Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh,
Madhya Pradesh, Telangana, Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat and students from
City University of New York and organizations across India to develop
innovative solutions to pressing environmental challenges.
Participants utilized data from a network of 22 weather and
air quality stations, installed through grants from the US State Department and
a National Science Foundation (NSF) research grant to create programs, tools,
or apps aimed at improving public awareness and understanding of local climate.
and air quality issues.
These efforts are expected to contribute to global
initiatives in the fight against climate change. Participants were tasked with
addressing five key areas during the hackathon. They were precision farming;
use of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning in weather, climate, and
air quality applications; air quality improvement, heat waves and sustainable
cities.
The event culminated in a pitch competition where the most
impactful and innovative solutions were awarded. Dr. Milton Santiago,
President, Bronx Community College, City University of New York informed
various aspects of climate change and how to address it. He said events of this
nature will help strengthen mutual ties between India and the USA, two largest
democracies in the world.
The Founder of KIIT and KISS Dr. Achyuta Samanta said the
event has given better exposure to the participants from abroad about Odisha,
its rich culture and heritage and the advancements made in the field of
education.
In his keynote address, Prof. Peter Groffman, City
University of New York, put light on Climate Proofing the Future and how to
Prepare for Climate Extremes.
Among others, Sita Raiter, Public Diplomacy Officer, US
Consulate General Mumbai; Alexander McLaren, Public Affairs Officer, US
Consulate General Hyderabad; Prof. Neal Phillip; and Prof. Paramita Sen, Bronx
Community College, City University of New York spoke on the occasion.
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