Hult Prize at SUST concludes

The 6th edition of the Hult Prize at Shahjalal University of Science and Technology (SUST) concluded with a grand finale on 24 February 2025, marking the end of an inspiring journey that began in October 2024. Team Econova emerged as the champion and will represent SUST in the national round of the prestigious global competition.

The event saw an overwhelming response, with over 120 teams registering for the abstract round. After a rigorous selection process, 21 teams advanced to the semi-final round, which was judged by professionals from Checkmate Events, Shwapno, Pathao Ltd, Banglalink Digital Communications Ltd, Grameenphone Ltd, and bKash Ltd. Seven teams—Accomotech, Econova, Effort Pending, Hello World, Idea Architect, Monon, and Neurolearn—made it to the grand finale.

The final round, held at the Mini Auditorium of SUST, was judged by experts from Marico Bangladesh Ltd, Coca-Cola Bangladesh Beverages, and SR Dream IT. The event was graced by distinguished adviser Dr Md Monirul Islam, professor of business administration, alongside coordinators from sponsored teams and enthusiastic students.

The top three teams received cash prizes totalling Tk30,000, distributed at a ceremony on 25 February at the IICT Building of SUST. The winners were Econova as the champion, receiving Tk15,000 and the opportunity to represent SUST in the national round; Effort Pending as the first runner-up, receiving Tk9,000; and Neurolearn as the second runner-up, receiving Tk6,000. The prizes were handed over by advisers and Professor Dr Md Ismail Hossain, treasurer of SUST, along with representatives from title sponsor SR Dream IT, including Rayhan Ahmed, Shaiek Ahmed, and Wasika Rahman Parisha.

The event was made possible by the generous support of sponsors and partners, including SR Dream IT as the title sponsor, ArrowNet as the platinum sponsor, Marico Bangladesh Ltd as the strategic partner, Mithai as the snacks partner, US-Bangla Airlines as the airline partner, PeopleNTech as the knowledge partner, Lead Academy as the e-learning partner, and Youth School for Social Entrepreneurs (YSSE) as the youth engagement partner. Media coverage was provided by The Business Standard, The Internet Today, and Daily Jaijaidin.

The Hult Prize at SUST 2024 has set a new benchmark for future editions, inspiring students to pursue innovative solutions for a sustainable world. As Team Econova prepares for the national round, the entire university community eagerly anticipates their performance on the bigger stage.