High school students will again be challenged by the annual Reverse Pitch Competition, organised by the Economic Development Department.

While regular pitch competitions have participants presenting pitches to potential investors, reverse-pitch participants are tasked with problem-solving challenges that are pitched to them.

The EDD has posted four challenges online with students invited to select one and design an app to resolve it and make a presentation as a team.

This year’s challenges include a bus app to make public transportation more effective and convenient; a live alert app to inform motorists of traffic issues; an ocean clean-up app to allow people to report and track marine waste; and a time tracker to notify users when their items need to be replaced or serviced.

An EDD spokesman said: “The competition is designed to empower the next generation of tech innovators, giving them a platform for showcasing groundbreaking solutions and gaining exposure to potential investors.

“Open to aspiring techies and problem-solvers, it fosters innovation and initiative among high-school students.

“Participating in the event allows participants to unleash their full potential and turn their innovative ideas into reality. They do so by proposing solutions to real-life problems for the benefit of the community.”

Teams will make their presentations before a panel of judges during this year’s Tech Education Day, with competition winners invited to pitch their solutions at the Global Entrepreneurship Week's Rocket Pitch Competition.

Jason Hayward, the Minister of Economy and Labour, said: "The Reverse Pitch Competition offers a unique networking experience that connects ambitious young minds with industry professionals, mentors, and investors.

“Participating high-school students can gain insights and guidance through these valuable connections to propel their technology journey forward.”

Jamillah Lodge, communication and development director with the Bermuda Economic Development Corporation, added that the BEDC was happy to partner with the EDD for the competition.

“Last year, hearing the students pitch their Reverse Pitch solutions was so inspiring that we decided it would be an excellent opportunity to partner on the Youth Pitch category of the Rocket Pitch Competition this year,” she said.

“This partnership will fuel the entrepreneurial mindset of each student participating this year. "

Maryem Biadillah, acting director of the EDD, said: "The annual Reverse Pitch Competition is a force for good, empowering high-school students to explore their innovative spirit and propose solutions that would positively impact life on the Island.

“This competition paves the way for a brighter future by harnessing the power of technology and innovation. It inspires the next generation of tech leaders.”

More information about the competition is included on the EDD website.