OPENHACK '26
Think. Build. Push.
OpenHack is a student-led technology event built around one simple idea: give builders a platform to create, connect, and grow. Combining a 24-hour hackathon with a dedicated technology conference at MUET SZAB Campus.
WHAT IS OPENHACK?
OpenHack is a student-led technology event built around one simple idea: give builders a platform to create, connect, and grow.
After the success of OpenHack’25, the second edition returns with a bigger vision—bringing together AI, Open Source, Hacktoberfest, and the developer community under one roof.
Empower the next generation of builders through technology, open collaboration, and meaningful industry connections.
MORE THAN JUST A COMPETITION
OpenHack '26 combines a 24-hour hackathon with a dedicated technology conference, creating an experience where participants don't just compete—they learn from industry experts, collaborate with fellow developers, and discover new opportunities.
24h Hackathon
Turn your ideas into working software under intense 24-hour sprint energy.
Tech Conference
Keynotes, industry talks, and diverse panel discussions on future tech.
Open Source & AI
Celebrate Hacktoberfest spirit with modern AI tools and open collaboration.
BUILD SOMETHING THAT MATTERS.
A 24-hour hackathon where ideas turn into working solutions.
Participants will collaborate in teams, solve real-world challenges, work with modern technologies, and receive guidance from experienced mentors throughout the journey.
24-Hour Coding Challenge
An adrenaline-fueled, non-stop sprint to take your idea from concept to deployed prototype.
AI-Focused Innovation
Harness artificial intelligence, machine learning, and generative models to solve practical issues.
Open Source Tracks
Build in public, embrace open collaboration, and celebrate the ethos of Hacktoberfest.
Team-Based Development
Squads of 2 to 3 university students collaborating closely on architecture, code, and demos.
Industry Mentorship
Guidance and technical feedback from experienced mentors throughout your hackathon journey.
Prizes & Recognition
PKR 10K for the winning team, 5K for the 1st runner-up, official certificates, and prestigious campus acclaim.
Networking Opportunities
Connect with peer builders, faculty researchers, software engineers, and tech founders across Pakistan.
24-HOUR INNOVATION SPRINT
Flagship hackathon sprint at MUET SZAB Campus. Hackathon has concluded.
24-HOUR TIMELINE
From kickoff and problem-statement reveal to mentoring and final submissions.
Kickoff & Sprint Launch
- 09:00Check-in, student verification & desk allocation.
- 11:00Hackathon kickoff & problem-statement reveal.
- 12:00HACKING COMMENCES — 24-hour clock starts.
- 16:00Mentorship check-in round 1 & progress review.
Deep Sprint, Demos & Awards
- 21:00Overnight deep sprint & mentor consultation.
- 12:00CODE FREEZE — Final submissions locked.
- 13:00Live product demos & faculty evaluations.
- 15:00Awards ceremony & winner coronation.
OPENHACK '26 CONFERENCE
Ideas. Insights. Industry.
The OpenHack Conference brings together developers, researchers, students, entrepreneurs, and industry professionals for conversations around the technologies shaping tomorrow.
Keynote Speeches
Hear directly from technology leaders and innovators shaping the cutting edge.
Industry Talks
Explore real-world applications of AI and Open Source driving global software development.
Panel Discussions
Engage with diverse perspectives on the future of technology and software careers.
Networking
Connect with people building the next generation of technology and industry systems.
CASH PRIZES & AWARDS
PKR 10,000 for the Grand Champion team and PKR 5,000 for the 1st Runner-Up squad, plus trophies, certificates, and honors.
10K
Cash prize awarded to the winning champion team along with prestigious trophies and honors.
5K
Cash prize awarded to the 1st runner-up squad along with official certificates and honors.
Winners Announcement & Squad Showcase
Champion and Runner-Up squads verified! Team photos and official certificates showcase will be published here shortly.
OPENHACK EDITIONS
Explore past victories, active editions, and future horizons of the annual flagship hackathon at MUET SZAB Campus.
OPENHACK '25
The inaugural 24-hour sprint at MUET SZAB Khairpur. Won by champion team Dev Verse (PKR 10,000 prize), featuring founding organizers and the first OpenHack Conference.
OPENHACK '26
The 2026 flagship edition featuring an elevated 24-hour sprint, OpenHack 26 Conference, and a PKR 15,000 prize pool.
OPENHACK '27+
Continuing the annual tradition of tech innovation at Department of Software Engineering, MUET SZAB Campus.
RULES & JUDGING CRITERIA
gavel HACKATHON RULES
Squad Up & One Team
Teams consisted of 2–3 members. Each hacker could belong to only one squad.
Roster Lock
No team changes allowed once registration closes. Valid student ID required.
Gear Up
Bring your own fully charged laptops and development setups.
Play Fair & Build Fresh
All code must be written during the 24-hour sprint. Pre-built projects will be disqualified. Clean code and sportsmanship required.
Submissions
Code freeze deadline is absolute. Live demo and Q&A are mandatory to qualify for the Grand Winner prize.
scoreboard EVALUATION METRICS
ORGANIZING TEAM
The faculty coordinators and student directors behind OpenHack '26 at Department of Software Engineering, MUET SZAB Campus.
SPONSORS & PARTNERS
ORIC
Cloud Native
OptiSphere
Scanimal
GDG
FAQ
OPENHACK '26 WRAPPED UP
The 24-hour flagship hackathon and tech conference at MUET SZAB Campus have successfully concluded. A huge salute to all participating squads, speakers, mentors, and sponsors! Stay tuned for official winning squad showcases.