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AI Agents and Robotics Student Hackathon

Event artwork for AI Agents and Robotics Student Hackathon

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About this event

What to expect

Build and test an AI-powered Ohbot robot at this hands-on student hackathon in Leeds on 28 September 2026. Hosted by UST, the challenge asks a practical question: how can an AI agent solve a real-world problem while enabling useful, responsible human–robot interaction?

The challenge

Teams of up to four students will design, develop and evaluate a working AI agent powered by a large language model. Using Python, the Ohbot API and provided AI service credits, participants will bring their agent to life through an Ohbot robot’s expressive face and voice.

The goal is not simply to produce a technical demo. Teams must show that their idea improves a difficult human interaction,and does so responsibly,when compared with a traditional system or mobile app. Suggested areas include education and healthcare, although teams are encouraged to interpret the brief creatively and develop their own real-world use case.

Up to eight shortlisted teams will take part, with each receiving access to an Ohbot robot for the duration of the hackathon. A £1,000 total prize pool will be awarded to the winning teams.

What you’ll practise

This in-person, team-based build day offers practical experience in:

  • Robotics and embodied AI
  • Python development and rapid prototyping
  • Designing responsible human–robot interactions
  • Testing and evaluating an AI solution
  • Multidisciplinary teamwork
  • Presenting and demonstrating a working concept

Speakers listed for the event are Vishnu Rajasekharan, Heather Dawe and Andrea Liotta. Further details covering the schedule, judging criteria, team formation and technical preparation will be sent to registered participants.

Who should attend?

The hackathon is designed for university and college students interested in AI, robotics, software development, design, business, healthcare, sustainability or innovation. You do not need to be a robotics expert, but every team should include at least one person with basic Python programming experience.…

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Create With Conference · Brighton

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600+ builders, honest implementation stories and hands-on workshops, once a year. The next edition is being planned.

The main stage at Create With 2026 with a full room
Hackathon participants with their laptops
A panel on the main stage

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