Telco and the Technopreneurship Development Centre (TDC) recently announced TEXPO STEAMON 25, a five-day hackathon challenging tertiary students to develop solutions for the creative economy whilst the government increases focus on digital transformation and youth employment.

The event is scheduled for September 22-26, 2025, at Harare Institute of Technology Innovation Hub.

The hackathon comes at a crucial time whereby Zimbabwe’s National Development Strategy emphasizes creative industries as key drivers of economic growth. The creative economy presents significant opportunities for job creation and innovation.

The timing aligns perfectly with the African Union’s designation of 2025 as the Year of African Cultural Heritage, emphasizing the need for Creative Economy solutions that honor and build upon African cultural foundations.

Students from tertiary institutions across the country will develop industry-relevant solutions while benefiting from expert mentorship, collaboration, and exposure. The competition focuses on addressing real challenges including digital content creation, cultural preservation, and creative entrepreneurship.

Recent government initiatives have allocated resources to support innovation hubs and creative industry development hence there is potential for substantial growth through digital innovation and youth engagement.

Winners will receive prizes including access to career development opportunities.

Registration is open to all tertiary students. For more information and registration details, visit www.texpoafrica.com or contact hello@texpoafrica.com