TCS' goIT Monthly Challenge for September Invites Students Aged 6-17 To Improve Cities & Communities

Tata Consultancy Services collaborates with global analytics software leader FICO to challenge students to imagine digital innovations that can make cities better places to live

NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / September 13, 2024 / With congestion, pollution and not enough resources, today's cities face significant challenges. Despite that, they are still growing. The United Nations' Sustainable Development Goal 11 addresses issues such as population growth, resource management and consumption as it seeks to make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable. This month, TCS and partner, global analytics software leader FICO, are calling on students aged 6-17 to answer that call through the goIT Monthly Challenge for September, Thriving Cities. The competition offers students the chance to compete for recognition and prizes when they submit their ideas for ensuring cities are places where people can prosper and thrive.

According to the World Bank, about 56% of the world's population - 4.4 billion inhabitants - live in cities, a trend expected to continue through 2050. At that point, the World Bank says urban population will have doubled, with nearly 7 of 10 people living in cities. This accelerated growth will increase demand for affordable housing, basic services, jobs, transport systems and viable infrastructure. It also makes life difficult for residents.

"TCS has a deep concern about urban dysfunction because it most negatively affects people experiencing poverty," said John DiChiara, Global lead - TCS goIT program. "Since the world needs all the good ideas young people can bring, participating with goIT in the search for solutions will be time well spent. We appreciate FICO's partnership on this important program."

"At FICO, we're passionate about using data and analytics to solve some of the world's toughest challenges," said Irshad Raihan, Vice President of product marketing and corporate communications at FICO. "We are proud to support young visionaries through the TCS goIT Monthly Challenge and look forward to seeing the creative solutions that contribute to building more equitable communities."

Students are encouraged to generate and present ideas for digital innovations that can make cities more liveable, sustainable and successful at serving their residents. Among many other possibilities, participants could explore strategies to improve financial literacy, employment, inclusivity or safety, or to ensure resiliency in the face of a natural disaster. All entries should demonstrate support for the UN's SDG 11 and will be judged by industry professionals. Participating students (individuals or teams) in the virtual challenge will compete for prizes, mentoring, future recognition, and more.