7 Teams Selected for the Final Stage of the Digital Solutions in the Tourism Sector Hackathon for Persons with Disabilities

Orange Jordan held an idea-presentation session for participants in the “Hackathon for Digital Solutions to Enhance Accessible Tourism for Persons with Disabilities” This session comes as a continuation of the hackathon, which was launched under the patronage of the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities and in conjunction with World Tourism Day. The hackathon serves as a leading platform that enables university students to develop innovative solutions that support the empowerment of Persons with Disabilities and enhance accessible tourism experiences for all.

The seven selected teams presented their proposals to a specialized judging panel, following their participation in an intensive training camp that focused on key areas, including the inclusion of Persons with Disabilities, accessible tourism, assistive technologies, and presentation skills. The participants showcased innovative digital solutions aimed at advancing the tourism sector by enhancing accessibility and making services available to everyone without exception.

The jury panel included a distinguished group of experts from various entities: a Member of the Senate and Chair of the Persons with Disabilities Committee, Asya Yaghi; the Assistant Director of E-Marketing at the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, Ezzat Kalbouneh; the  Accessibility and Architectural Consultant of accessible Jordan, Eng. Narjes Shawabkeh; the Director of the Coding Academy at Orange Digital Center, Salameh Yaseen; and the Studio Supervisor at Orange Jordan, Omar Mihyar.

The teams presented innovative projects leveraging the latest technologies to promote the inclusion of Persons with Disabilities in the tourism sector. The solutions ranged from smart applications for the Deaf and hard of hearing, devices for individuals with visual impairments and safe mobility, digital platforms for trip planning, and interactive museum experiences using screens, sign language, and tactile models, to solutions enhancing visual perception and cultural exhibition experience. Notable projects included: Through Everyone’s Eyes, Heritage that is Touched, Heard, and Seen, Eshara Platform, Jordan 360, Travel Without Limits, My Accessible Journey, and Guide Me.

Orange Jordan expressed its delight in seeing young innovators’ digital ideas transform into practical solutions that empower Persons with Disabilities and open new horizons for inclusive tourism in the Kingdom. The hackathon was not merely a competitive event, but a genuine platform to create a positive societal impact, where innovation meets responsibility and ethics to build a more inclusive future for all.

The qualifying teams were selected, with the official announcement scheduled during the celebration of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities on the 3rd of December. This recognition highlights their creativity in delivering smart and sustainable digital solutions that promote the inclusion of Persons with Disabilities in the tourism sector, reflecting Orange Jordan’s societal commitment to supporting youth and innovation for a tangible positive impact.