International Technology competition 2026
Future-Ready TVET and Technological Innovation for Sustainable Industrial Transformation
April 30 - May 2, 2026 | Addis Ababa Convention Center, Ethiopia
Competition Overview
The FDRE Technical and Vocational Training (Institute is pleased to invite local and international young professionals from TVET system to participate in the International Technology Competition under "Harnessing Technology and Innovation to Transform TVET for Sustainable Development" theme. This global competition aims to showcase cutting-edge technological solutions that strengthen the TVET ecosystem and support skills development, employability, and sustainable development.
The competition brings together the brightest minds from TVET institutions, industry, and startups to compete for prestigious awards, funding opportunities, and global recognition. Whether you're a student team, TVET institution, startup, or established company, this is your chance to make an impact in sustainable industrial transformation.
Attractive
Competition Prize
TVET Focus
Solutions bridging education and industry needs
Industrial Transformation
Technologies for sustainable industrial development
Industry Connect
Meet investors and industry leaders
Competition Themes
Submit your project under one of these TVET-focused themes:
Renewable Energy and Green Technologies
Innovations in clean, sustainable, and efficient energy production, storage, and consumption for industrial and community applications.
Advanced Manufacturing and Industrial Automation
Industry 4.0 technologies, automation systems, robotics, and smart manufacturing solutions enhancing productivity and efficiency.
Agriculture and Agro-Processing Technologies
Smart farming innovations, precision agriculture, food processing technologies, and value-addition solutions for sustainable food systems.
ICT and Digital Innovation
Digital solutions, software platforms, AI tools, AR/VR applications, and IoT systems transforming TVET and digital economies.
Construction and Low-Cost Housing Technologies
Innovative construction methods, sustainable building materials, affordable housing solutions, and smart infrastructure technologies.
Detailed Theme Descriptions
This theme covers any technology or innovation that supports clean, sustainable, and efficient energy use. It focuses on functional prototypes or deployed systems (hardware/software) related to sustainable energy production, storage, and consumption.
It may include topics such as:This theme accepts innovations (devices, machines, applied technologies, prototypes), advancing automation, mechanization, or Industry 4.0. It focuses on devices, machines, applied technologies, prototypes that enhance productivity, quality, and resource efficiency in industrial settings through automation and digitalization.
It may include topics such as:This theme includes devices, machines, applied technologies, innovations, prototypes that improve productivity, efficiency, sustainability, or data-driven farming. Technologies developed to optimize crop and livestock management, leading to increased yield, reduced resource consumption (water, fertilizer), and climate resilience. This theme also welcomes any technology that improves food processing, safety, preservation, value addition, or storage and innovations addressing food loss, food safety, and the development of sustainable food products and processing techniques.
It may include topics such as:This theme includes any software, digital tool, platform, or ICT solution. Focus: Digital technologies used to enhance digital economy, learning, and the digital economy.
It may include topics such as:This theme accepts any devices, machines, applied technologies, prototypes that enhances construction, housing, building materials, or infrastructure.
It may include topics such as:Submission Requirements
Project Documentation
- Project Abstract: 500-word summary of your project
- Technical Documentation: Detailed specifications and architecture
- Demonstration Video: 3-5 minute video showcasing functionality
- Team Information: All team members with roles
- Impact Statement: Social and economic impact
Judging Criteria
Innovation (30%)
Technical Implementation (25%)
Practical Impact (20%)
Scalability (15%)
Presentation (10%)
Important Notes
- Projects must be original work developed within the last 2 years
- Teams can consist of 1-5 members
- All team members must be registered for the competition
- Prototype or working demo is highly recommended
- Submission deadline: March 21, 2026 (11:59 PM AoE)
- Registration is FREE for all participants
Prizes & Awards
Grand Champion
Overall Competition Winner
- Champion Trophy & Certificate
- Incubation Program Support
- Media Features & Recognition
- International Showcase Opportunity
- Executive Mentorship Sessions
Theme Winners
Top Project in Each Theme
- Theme Winner Trophy & Certificate
- Specialized Category Prizes
- Industry Partner Connections
- Featured Publications
- Winner Certificates for Team
Special Awards
Recognition in Special Categories
- Best TVET Institution Innovation
- Most Social Impact Award
- Most Scalable Solution Award
- People's Choice Award
- Women in Tech Award
Additional Benefits
Incubation Support
3-month incubation for top 5 projects
Investment Opportunities
Connect with angel investors and VCs
International Exposure
Showcase at partner events worldwide
Competition Timeline
Submission Deadline
March 21, 2026Last day to submit projects
Shortlist Announcement
March 23, 2026Top 50 projects announced
Finalists Announcement
March 28, 2026Top 20 projects selected
Final Competition
Apri 30 - May 2, 2026Live judging and awards ceremony
Competition Committee
Mr. Robera Daba
TC Main Committee Co-chair
AI & Investment
Dr. Yemane Zemichael
Sponsorship and partnership Committee
PhD in Manufacturing Technology)
Dr. Abebe Bereda
Scientific Committee Member
PhD Dairy SciencesNeed Help?
Technical Queries:
tech@competition.tvt.edu.et
+251-913010926
Registration Support:
register@competition.tvt.edu.et
+251-913
Submission Deadline
March 21, 2026
Judging Process
Initial Screening
All submissions checked for completeness and eligibility
Expert Review
Technical evaluation by domain experts
Semi-finals
Online presentations to judges
Final Judging
Live presentations and Q&A at event