Launch of the “One Circle” Competition to Reimagine Sustainable Technology Solutions

The “One Circle” initiative has announced the launch of the “One Circle Competition for Reimagining Sustainable Technology Solutions,” aiming to engage youth and innovators in proposing practical ideas that support circular economy practices within the Information and Communications Technology (ICT) sector. The competition places a strong focus on electronic waste recycling, as well as the refurbishment and reuse of electronic devices.

A National Initiative
The competition is part of the One Circle Project, launched in 2023 as a national initiative supporting Egypt’s transition toward a circular economy in the ICT and electronics sector.
The initiative falls under the global project “Switching to Circular Economy Value Chains,” co-funded by the European Union and the Government of Finland, and implemented by the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) in partnership with Orange, Nokia, and Cordon, with local support from E-Tadweer and the Haya Karima Foundation.
Through this global framework, the initiative seeks to build a strong alliance of local and international partners to support a more sustainable and responsible development model that delivers long-term benefits for both society and the environment.

Driving Innovation
The competition aims to engage Egyptian citizens and key stakeholders in developing new and practical solutions that enhance sustainability within the ICT sector, reduce the environmental impact of electronic waste, promote responsible practices, and extend the lifespan of electronic devices.

Key Focus Areas
Participants are required to develop and present innovative ideas, rather than ready-made technical prototypes or already implemented software solutions. The competition focuses on three main tracks:
- Device Reuse and Refurbishment: Ideas that promote repairing and maintaining devices instead of discarding them.
- Smart E-Waste Management: Technology-driven solutions that encourage the collection and recycling of electronic waste.
- Sustainable Technology Design: Developing longer-lasting, easier-to-repair devices using environmentally friendly materials.
The competition brings together university students and young professionals aged 18 to 25 from across Egypt. Participants compete in teams of two members.

Idea Evaluation
Interested teams can apply through the official online application form. Submitted ideas will be evaluated online by a jury panel representing partner organizations, including Orange, Upgrade, and E-Tadweer, based on key criteria such as innovation, sustainability, impact, and gender balance.
The competition will conclude with a final awards ceremony on January 15, 2026, in Cairo, where winning teams will be announced and honored.

Source: Press Release