DAY 3 OF EKOWE CODEFEST: THE HACKATHON SHOWDOWN

Day 3 of the Ekowe Codefest was an electrifying experience—the day of the highly anticipated hackathon session, where creativity, technical skills, and teamwork were put to the ultimate test. The hackathon saw five teams, each made up of talented students from the Computer Science Department of Federal Polytechnic Ekowe, compete for the top prize. Each team had to design and develop a project within a tight window of four hours using a range of web technologies—HTML, CSS, PHP, and JavaScript. To make things even more challenging, they were required to host their projects on a local server, such as XAMPP or WAMP, and demonstrate their functionality live.

The five competing teams were:

1. Team Magnificent led by Didi-Omah Augustine Chinazaekpere

2. Team Upwork led by Jackson Kingsley

3. Team White Hat Coders led by Joshua Adamure

4. Team Icon led by Abiala Cyrinexley

5. Team Believe led by Wisdom Iyirindideke Patani

The task was straightforward but challenging: to create a web project tailored for the Department of Computer Science at the Federal Polytechnic Ekowe, showcasing the application of these fundamental web technologies. The panel of judges, composed of lecturers from the department, was a formidable one: Mr. Okpomu Bethel (HOD of the department), Fems Solomon, Gideon Opuofoni, Ferdinard Ihe, and Samuel Ogoro.

The hackathon kicked off promptly, and as the clock began ticking, each team delved into their respective strategies. It was a scene of controlled chaos—keyboards clicking, mouse pointers flying across screens, and animated discussions filling the room. It was fascinating to see how each team approached the challenge differently.

Team Magnificent, under the leadership of Didi-Omah Augustine Chinazaekpere, demonstrated exceptional synergy and technical prowess. Their project was a comprehensive for the Computer Science Department that combined clean, intuitive design with a robust backend. The team utilized HTML and CSS for a sleek front-end interface, PHP for server-side scripting, and JavaScript to add dynamic functionalities. Their project featured a responsive design, interactive elements, and seamless navigation. The project was hosted locally on XAMPP, and during their demonstration, they showcased a perfectly functional platform that left the judges and audience thoroughly impressed. Their well-rounded approach, effective time management, and attention to detail clearly set them apart from the rest.

Team White Hat Coders, led by Joshua Adamure, took a different route. Using PHP for backend processes and JavaScript to enhance user interaction, they presented a solution that balanced functionality with security. Hosted on WAMP, their demonstration highlighted features like dropdown list, which were both innovative and essential for the project. The judges, particularly those with a focus on software development, were visibly impressed by their thoroughness and technical depth.

Team Upwork, guided by Jackson Kingsley, decided to prioritize user experience and responsiveness in their project. Their platform stood out with a visually appealing interface, crafted with HTML and CSS, that was both modern and easy to navigate. They cleverly used JavaScript for interactivity, while PHP was employed for back-end functionalities such as database management. By hosting their project on XAMPP, they ensured a smooth, responsive demonstration that highlighted their skills in front-end development and user-centric design. The attention to aesthetics and usability won them praise from the judges.

Meanwhile, Team Icon, led by Abiala Cyrinexley, took on the challenge with a unique focus on interactivity. They demonstrated their ability to think outside the box by making a platform that was both visually dynamic and functional. Team Believe, headed by Wisdom Iyirindideke Patani, impressed with their dedication to accessibility. Their project, hosted on a local server, emphasized creating an inclusive environment where every user, regardless of their abilities, could navigate and interact easily.

As the four-hour countdown wound down, the atmosphere in the room became tense. Final touches were being made, last-minute bugs were fixed, and teams prepared to present their projects. The room buzzed with anticipation as each team took the stage to showcase their work to the panel of judges and their peers.

After a series of thorough evaluations and thought-provoking Q&A sessions, the judges retired briefly to deliberate. Their decision was challenging, given the creativity and technical skills displayed by all the teams. However, it was time to announce the winners.

1. First Place Winner: Team Magnificent
   Team Magnificent emerged victorious, winning the top prize for their exceptional project that combined outstanding design, robust functionality, and smooth operation on XAMPP. Their balanced approach and teamwork clearly impressed the judges, who praised their attention to detail and innovative solutions.
2. Second Place Winner: Team White Hat Coders
   Team White Hat Coders secured the second position.The judges appreciated their innovative approach.
3. Third Place Winner: Team Upwork
   Team Upwork took third place. The judges were particularly impressed by their ability to marry aesthetics with functionality.

As the winners were announced, cheers and applause erupted throughout the room. It was a moment of celebration, not just for the winning teams, but for everyone who participated in this hackathon. Each team brought something unique to the table, and the judges acknowledged this, commending all participants for their hard work and innovative ideas.

Reflecting on the day, it was evident that the hackathon embodied the very essence of the Ekowe Codefest—an event that celebrates innovation, collaboration, and the spirit of learning. It was a privilege to witness such passion and talent on display. Watching these young minds tackle real-world problems with such determination and creativity was inspiring. This hackathon wasn't just a competition; it was a learning experience, a testament to the boundless potential of the students at Federal Polytechnic Ekowe, and a reminder of the incredible things that can be achieved when innovation meets opportunity.

At the end of the hackathon and exhibition, the NACOS chapter president, Didi-Omah Augustine Chinazaekpere, delivered a collaborative closing remark, expressing appreciation to the lecturers, students, chapter executives, and the HOD for their support, attendance, registrations, and engagement from day one to the end of the program.

Following this, the chapter director of innovation and creativity, Jackson Kingsley Samuel, led the closing prayer.

PHOTOS SPEAK:

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