Contestants share their excitement, aspirations, and expectations as they embark on the journey of the competition. Photo courtesy of VPbank

HÀ NỘI — VPBank launched the VPBank Technology Hackathon 2024 on May 11, a premier event designed to foster innovation and creativity in the fields of IT and Data Science. This exciting competition, organised in partnership with Amazon Web Services (AWS), has quickly become a leading platform for young tech talent to demonstrate their skills and develop solutions for the future of banking.

A thriving hub for young innovators

With nearly 600 contestants from universities and tech institutions across Việt Nam, the VPBank Technology Hackathon 2024 has drawn significant attention, promising to deliver groundbreaking ideas and solutions. The event kicked off in Hà Nội, HCM City, and virtually, under the theme "Conquer Technology, Create the Future." This year, the competition is organised with a fresh, dynamic format where contestants tackle real-world banking challenges by building solutions on AWS’s cloud computing platform.

Throughout the competition, participants will have the unique opportunity to be mentored by a team of experts from both VPBank and AWS. These mentors will guide contestants in applying their knowledge to develop scalable, secure, and innovative solutions for the finance and banking sectors, ensuring that participants not only learn technical skills but also gain an understanding of practical business applications.

The discussion on the competition's challenges captivated contestants, sparking excitement and anticipation. Photo courtesy of VPBank

Expert insights on emerging technologies

In addition to the competition, the launch event featured insights from leading AWS experts in the Asia Pacific region, who shared knowledge on cutting-edge technology trends. Topics such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Generative AI (GenAI) in transforming customer experience, and best practices for developing, securing, and operating cloud-based applications, were at the forefront of the discussion.

The AWS experts provided participants with invaluable guidance on how to rapidly develop modern applications on the AWS cloud platform, while ensuring the highest standards of security and operational efficiency. This knowledge-sharing session was designed to equip contestants with the tools they need to tackle the competition’s challenges and make informed decisions as they move forward in the hackathon. The goal was not only to inspire innovation but also to help participants gain a practical understanding of cloud technologies and modern development principles.

A knowledge-driven approach to innovation

VPBank’s commitment to nurturing young tech talent is evident in the comprehensive approach to this event. The hackathon’s organisers have ensured that contestants are well-prepared with the latest knowledge in emerging technologies and trends. This strategic knowledge-sharing session provided the foundation for contestants to approach the competition’s challenges with confidence and creativity. The session also helped participants understand how modern cloud applications are developed, deployed, and maintained - skills that are essential in today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape.

Trần Thị Diệp Anh, Director of VPBank’s Human Resources Management said that this event is part of VPBank’s broader mission to attract top tech talent and create a pipeline of innovative thinkers for the future of the banking and finance industry.

"Through the VPBank Technology Hackathon, we provide young talents with the opportunity to learn, grow, and experience the innovative working environment at VPBank, Home of Talents. We are committed to fostering a culture where creativity and continuous innovation thrive."

The competition not only presents an opportunity to solve real-world problems but also offers valuable career prospects for those who excel. The hackathon features a compelling prize structure, including first, second, and third place awards, as well as recognition for the most innovative solutions in specific categories. In addition, the most outstanding individuals and teams will have the chance to join VPBank, making this a unique pathway to a promising career in the banking and technology sectors.

AWS experts share about AWS cloud computing platform. Photo courtesy of VPBank

Mentorship and support from industry leaders

Throughout the competition, participants will be supported by a team of experienced mentors from both VPBank and AWS. These experts will assist contestants in tackling the seven technology challenges - ranging from cloud solutions to AI-driven customer experience innovations - designed to push them to apply their knowledge to real-world financial services problems. The expert-led Q&A sessions and practical examples during the launch event provided further clarity on the challenges ahead, ensuring that every participant is fully equipped to create high-impact solutions.

VPBank and AWS’s commitment to providing continuous support throughout the hackathon is a testament to their dedication to cultivating a new generation of talent who will drive the digital transformation of the financial services sector.

The launch event of the VPBank Technology Hackathon 2024 marks a key milestone in VPBank’s ongoing strategy to invest in and attract top-tier technology talent. By offering such a comprehensive platform for learning, innovation, and career development, VPBank is solidifying its position as a leader in driving the digital transformation of Việt Nam’s banking sector.

The participation of both the VPBank Board of Directors and AWS in the event further highlights the bank's deep commitment to advancing digital innovation. This collaboration underscores VPBank's dedication to attracting the brightest minds and ensuring they are equipped with the tools and resources to succeed in the rapidly changing world of banking technology.

As the hackathon progresses, the competition will no doubt uncover the next generation of digital leaders who will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of banking technology. With expert mentorship, cutting-edge tools, and real-world challenges, VPBank Technology Hackathon 2024 is not just about solving today’s problems - it’s about building the future of banking through technology. — VNS