CitizenCity has been at the heart of the Multidisciplinary International Project 2026, as 90 students from 10 partner universities gathered at Fontys ICT to take part in the International Student Challenge. The initiative brought together diverse academic backgrounds to explore the potential of Data & AI in addressing real-world urban challenges.
From the outset, the challenge positioned CitizenCity—one of the pilot projects within the European Data Space for Smart Communities—as a key example of how data spaces can enable smarter, more connected cities. Students were invited to work directly with real-world use cases, diving into the role of data sharing, collaboration, and innovation in urban environments.
Over five intensive days, participants engaged in hands-on sessions and collaborative workshops. Bart Van Gennipintroduced the fundamentals of data spaces, using CitizenCity as a source of inspiration. Dujuan Yang highlighted the importance of stakeholder perspectives in shaping effective and inclusive data ecosystems.
Students also explored what it means to become a truly data-driven city, with insights and real-world examples shared by Albert Seubers in collaboration with Gemeente Eindhoven. An ethics workshop led by Maria Amalia Camara encouraged participants to reflect on the responsible use of data and AI in urban innovation.
Throughout the challenge, teams worked intensively to ideate, test, and refine solutions aimed at improving city life. The event culminated in a final showcase of innovative concepts, where creativity, teamwork, and real-world applicability were key.
The winning project addressed the central question: “How Can We Improve a City Using AI and Data?”, demonstrating both originality and practical impact.
This initiative highlights CitizenCity’s commitment to co-creating innovation with the next generation. By combining cross-disciplinary teamwork, hands-on learning, and ethical reflection, the International Student Challenge showcased how young talent can contribute to shaping smarter and more sustainable cities.
CitizenCity works with public authorities, partners and innovators to turn data into practical urban solutions. Get in touch to discuss use cases, collaboration opportunities and what implementation could look like in your context.
