SASKATCHEWAN POLYTECHNIC
Sask Polytech Hack: Where creativity meets technology

In March 2025, Saskatchewan Polytechnic students demonstrated their creativity and problem-solving skills at the institution's second hackathon, Sask Polytech Hack 2025. This exciting event was hosted by the Digital Integration Centre of Excellence (DICE) and the Faculty of Digital Innovation, Arts and Sciences, in partnership with Creative Saskatchewan and SaskInteractive.

Sask Polytech Hack 2025 showcased student ingenuity and highlighted how technology can play a role in solving critical issues for marginalized communities. Fourteen participating teams from nine programs presented a wide range of creative and practical ideas with a focus on improving public safety through technology. 

Participants were encouraged to bring their creativity to tackle any problem, whether tech-related or not. Guided by the hackathon's challenge statement, "Tech-driven public safety for marginalized communities that focuses on road-side safety," and equipped with laptops, chargers, pizza and pop, teams embarked on a journey of innovation and collaboration over 24 hours, taking breaks to attend classes and sleep!

Students gained invaluable experience, forged new connections and bolstered their resumes with new skills that will set them apart in a competitive job market. They also benefited from mentorship provided by industry experts while competing for exciting prizes. Michael Klein from Sask Polytech and Shaye Ruecker from Marshal Digital mentored on marketing plan development, Kim MacKay from Coconut Calendar and Nilay Jha with PlastiPoints guided rapid prototyping.

"Sask Polytech Hack 2025 not only fostered innovation and collaboration but also provided a platform for students to connect with industry professionals," says Tanis Wilder, acting associate dean of the Faculty of Digital Innovation, Arts and Sciences. "Thank you to our co-hosts and collaborators, Creative Saskatchewan, SaskInteractive and NutraMate, our industry mentors and the judges who provided valuable feedback and insights on the final pitches, further enhancing the learning experience for the competitors."

"Congratulations to all 54 students who participated in this year's 24-hour hackathon," says Tanya Lung, DICE research manager. "We are so proud of the hard work and passion you shared. Participating in hackathons gives Sask Polytech students hands-on experience to transition seamlessly into their chosen careers and positions them as employees of choice in today's competitive tech job market."

Student Quotes

Mousumi Dhar
"Building a working demo in less than 24 hours felt like a bungee jump I could feel the adrenaline rush in my stomach the entire time. One part of me says, Nailed it!' while the other whispers, Imagine what we could've done with more time!'"

Abhiket Srivastava
"Competing against so many brilliant teams from Saskatoon and Regina in a 24-hour challenge was an intense yet rewarding experience. The mentorship, teamwork, and sheer innovation made this journey unforgettable."

Arun Kumar
"Taking on a challenge against such brilliant teams was intense part brain marathon, part survival test. Between brainstorming, coding, and problem-solving, the real MVP was the amazing food that kept us fueled and focused. Turns out, innovation thrives on great ideas... and even better snacks!"

Maharshikumar Panchal
"The true magic of a hackathon lies in the teamwork. It's incredible what a diverse group of minds can achieve when they come together with a shared purpose. The intense collaboration and rapid problem-solving pushed me to expand my capabilities in ways I never imagined."

2025 Sask Polytech Hack Winners  

First ($2,000)

Student names Abhiket Srivastava, Arun Kumar Sampath Kumar, Maharshikumar Harishbhai Panchal, Mousumi Dhar
Program Project Management; Technology Management
Team Name Sask Bloomers
Project name Vox Guard
Description:
Vox Guard is an AI-driven Distress Detection App designed to enhance roadside safety for women. Using advanced voice recognition technology, the app detects distressed sounds and screams, automatically triggering alerts. Once activated, the app continuously records audio in 10-second segments. If no distress is detected, the recorded file is automatically deleted. However, if distress sounds or alarming speech are identified, the app immediately sends live location data and alerts to pre-saved emergency contacts ensuring swift response and enhanced roadside safety.

Second ($1,500)

Student names Kunjal Mahant, Lionel Melrick Rodrigues, Nimmy Hubald Bastian, Jisha Rony
Program Technology Management
Team Name Atom
Project name SGI - AI Driving Assistant
Description: This project is an AI-powered SGI driving assistant designed to help newcomers in Saskatchewan understand road rules and drive safely. A Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) application was developed and trained on the SGI Driver's Handbook, which provides instructions based on user queries in their native language. The application allows users to communicate in their preferred language, offering a conversational experience where the app responds interactively.

Third ($1,000)

Student names Huijuan Zheng (Virginia), Piyush Shukla, Sivawut Srithammawut (Pipe), Xuan Vinh Vu
Program Artificial Intelligence and Data Analytics; Cyber Security; Technology Management
Team Name Safe Horizons
Project name Revolutionizing Safety for Hearing Impaired Cyclists and Motorcyclists

Description: Attempting to create a safer experience for cyclists, this team created a prototype using helmet-mounted cameras and machine-learning-powered computer vision. The platform would notify cyclists of approaching vehicles from behind. This could be of particular benefit for hearing-impaired individuals.

Faculty of Digital Innovation, Arts and Sciences programs offer a blend of theoretical foundations and hands-on experience, preparing you for a dynamic career in fields such as software development, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and data analytics. Learn more about programs shaping the future of digital innovation.