AI4SDG3 Young Minds Challenge 2026
Build AI solutions that improve health, wellbeing and active lives.
A global challenge for students, researchers, startups and innovators under 35 developing responsible AI solutions for Good Health, Well-Being and Sport.
The AI4SDG# Challenge Series is an annual themed AI innovation initiative led by the International Research Centre on Artificial Intelligence (IRCAI), under the auspices of UNESCO, and AI in Africa, in partnership with GITEX Global.
GITEX Africa – Marrakech, Morocco
GITEX Asia – SingaporeAbout the Challenge
Artificial Intelligence has the potential to transform healthcare systems, improve mental well-being, and support healthy ageing.
The AI4SDG3 Young Minds Challenge invites innovators to develop responsible AI solutions aligned with Sustainable Development Goal 3: Good Health and Well-being.
We are encouraging strong participation from Morocco, Southeast Asia, Africa and global AI innovators.
The programme runs as a focused 3-week online journey combining expert sessions, ideation, data and prototyping support, before culminating in live final pitch competitions at GITEX Africa in Marrakech on 9 April 2026 and GITEX AI Asia in Singapore on 10 April 2026.
Discover the official event platforms:
Responsible AI Certified Tutorial
To further empower professionals and AI leaders, IRCAI delivers a certified tutorial on Responsible AI, covering ethics, governance, and impact measurement, structured with a revenue-sharing model in partnership with GITEX to ensure long-term sustainability and ecosystem growth.
2026 Events Schedule
Join the AI4SDG3 challenge through one of our global GITEX platforms.
Challenge Timeline
Key dates across the challenge journey, from registration to the live pitch competitions.
Moments from the AI4SDG Journey
A glimpse of previous activities, community engagement, innovation showcases and challenge energy across our ecosystem.
Challenge Themes
Projects should address one or more of the following areas.
Public Health Innovation
- Disease surveillance
- Healthcare access
- Predictive health systems
Mental Health & Emotional Wellbeing
- Early detection
- Digital therapeutics
- Community wellbeing tools
Healthy Ageing
- Assisted living
- Predictive disease analytics
- Social isolation detection
Physical Activity & Sports
- Injury prevention
- Smart wearables
- Training optimisation
What Participants Receive
Selected teams gain access to expert support, visibility, learning opportunities and recognition.
- Mentorship from global AI and experts in Public Health, Sport and Wellbeing
- Curated datasets and research resources
- Global innovation exposure
- Investor and policymaker engagement
- Awards for Impact, Innovation and Ethical AI
Global Learning Series
Participants will join expert sessions starting March 23, including:
- AI for global health
- Data and AI model development
- Responsible AI frameworks
- Prototype development
Global Showcase Opportunities
Finalists will pitch their solutions at:
- GITEX Africa – Marrakech
- GITEX Asia – Singapore
Who Can Apply
Participants must be under 35 years old.
Application Requirements
Submit a concise but strong application outlining the technical, impact and ethical dimensions of your solution.
- Project abstract (max 1000 words)
- Technical description
- Impact and scalability plan
- Ethical AI considerations
- Short team bio
Ready to Apply?
Choose your challenge track and submit your application:
Deadline: 23 March 2026
Our Commitment
Our commitment is to inspire collaboration, foster innovation, and create impactful solutions that address global challenges. With a professional yet friendly approach, we strive to connect organizations and individuals who share our vision of a better future.
Our events are designed to not only educate but also to activate a community of change-makers passionate about sustainability.
Join us in transforming technology for impactful solutions aligned with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.
Contact Us
Get in touch with the AI in Africa team:
Email: Mus@aiinafrica.org
Email: lee@aiinafrica.org
Instagram: @aiinafrica
LinkedIn: AI in Africa