Dell Technologies has opened applications for its annual “Envision the Future” competition, inviting undergraduate students from the Middle East, Africa and Turkey to submit their graduation projects.

The competition encourages students to explore innovative solutions in IT transformation, with the chance to win cash prizes, mentorship and certifications from Dell.

According to an announcement made by Dell, the competition is aimed at undergraduate students working on projects in areas such as FinTech, sustainability, education, healthcare and wellness.

Dell states that “This competition aims to stimulate the creativity of students for their final studies projects in order to play an active role in the transformation of IT and to have the opportunity to shine and win prizes.”

Competition Structure and Awards

The “Envision the Future” competition will award cash prizes to the top three teams, who will share a total of $12,000. First place will receive $5,000, second place $4,000 and third place $3,000.

Additionally, the top 10 teams will receive certificates of recognition and finalists will be offered mentoring opportunities from Dell experts. Winners will be recognized at a formal awards ceremony at a major Dell Technologies event, attended by Dell representatives and university officials.

Eligibility requirements

To be eligible for the competition, candidates must:

• Participants must be senior students enrolled full-time at a university in the Middle East, Africa or Turkey. They must not hold government jobs and need a faculty member as a supervisor.
• Verification: Information provided by students must be verified by their department head. Each student can only participate in one project.
• Communication: Dell Technologies will communicate with each project team through the faculty advisor and designated team leader.
• Team Composition: Teams should consist of 3-6 members, with one member acting as the team leader, responsible for team management, communication, and project progress.
• Originality and ethics: The competition emphasizes original ideas. Plagiarism or copying of substantial material from other sources may result in disqualification. Any referenced material must be properly cited and must not exceed 20% of the content of the report.

Team Leader Responsibilities

• Serve as the primary contact between the team and Dell Technologies for the competition.
• Act as project manager, coordinating schedules, team meetings and conflict resolution.
• Ensure all team communications are documented and project deliverables meet deadlines and requirements.
• Maintain team morale, ensure motivation and respect ethical standards.
• Oversee the use of WebEx during competition sessions and ensure all project goals and guidelines are followed.

Originality of ideas is at the heart of this competition, and ethical guidelines prohibit plagiarism or misrepresenting another’s work as one’s own, Dell informs.

Competition phases

The competition is divided into three phases:

1. Submission of project summary: Students submit a summary of their project between November 1 and November 30, 2024. Shortlisted projects will be announced on January 25, 2025.

2. Provisional submission of design drawing: Shortlisted teams submit a detailed design by March 10, 2025. On March 30, 2025, the top 20 finalists will be selected and receive technical mentorship from Dell experts.

3. Final project submission: Finalists submit their completed projects by August 5, 2025. Winners will be announced on September 1, 2025.

This progressive approach allows students to refine their work through feedback and guidance, improving the quality and applicability of their projects.

How to apply

Students interested in participating can submit their application by following the application form provided. link

Applications are open until November 30, 2024.

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