From 15 to 19 June, students from Mykolas Romeris University (MRU) took part in the Hack Smart Sofia 2026 project organised within the European Reform University Alliance (ERUA). The international hackathon was hosted by ERUA partner New Bulgarian University in Sofia, bringing together students from across Europe to develop innovative solutions to urban challenges.
Throughout the event, participants met with representatives of ministries and municipalities, non-governmental organisations, start-up and innovation ecosystem stakeholders, and experts from various fields. They shared insights into the challenges of rapidly growing cities, sustainable urban development, and the role of innovation in creating smarter cities.
During five intensive days, students from Lithuania, Poland, Germany, Bulgaria, Italy, and Greece worked in international teams to design technology-based solutions addressing the challenges faced by Bulgaria's rapidly expanding capital. At the end of the hackathon, the teams presented their ideas to a professional jury.
MRU students contributed to teams that received top awards and special recognitions in several categories, demonstrating their ability to collaborate effectively in international environments and develop innovative solutions to real-world challenges.
"Mykolas Romeris University students are also ERUA students, and ERUA students are also Mykolas Romeris University students. This outstanding initiative of the university alliance enables students to broaden their horizons, gain international experience, and build valuable connections—not only for their future careers but also lasting friendships," says Assoc. Prof. Dr. Artūras Jurgelevičius, Head of the Business Management and Startup Building study programme at MRU.
Participation in ERUA initiatives provides students with opportunities to study in an international environment, collaborate with experts from diverse fields, and gain practical experience by addressing some of the most pressing challenges facing European cities.
Mykolas Romeris University extends its sincere gratitude to New Bulgarian University, the initiator and organiser of Hack Smart Sofia 2026, Associate Professor Juliana Vassileva, as well as the mentors, experts, and all participants for creating an inspiring international environment and providing a valuable learning and collaboration experience.
