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UNESCO Bangkok and the digital innovation platform , have successfully been implementing their ‘Creative Digital Lab’ project, which aimed to foster innovation in digital immersive technology via online classes, hackathons, creative digital incubation, and future plans for testing and validation.

The project course was explicitly designed to provide participants with the tools and techniques needed to create and innovate using digital platforms like Unity, Playmaker, and STYLY, and resulted in the launch of the NewView XR Lab, a creative digital lab programme. The NewView XR Lab attracted a diverse group of participants, with 53 young women from various creative fields among the 133 attendees in the on-site classes. This inclusive environment fostered considerable collaboration and brought under one roof a host of youth with a shared passion for creativity and cutting-edge technology.

Immersive Technology Online Classes

To extend the reach of the on-site project, , , which is supported by the of the Thailand Prime Minister's Office. The six-week course attracted 300 participants from Mekong countries, including Cambodia, Lao PDR, Myanmar, Thailand, and Viet Nam. Classes featured prominent speakers and instructors from the forefront of the immersive field, enabling participants an unparalleled opportunity in the region to delve into various aspects of immersive technology and its applications.

Hackathons and Creative Digital Incubation

Following the online classes, selected participants were invited to take part in two-day hackathons in Bangkok, Ho Chi Minh City, and Khon Khaen (Thailand Creative and Design Center, TCDC). These hackathons provided a platform for creative professionals and musicians to collaborate and ideate innovative projects. Three winning projects, namely Endangered Animals in Phong Na Khe Bang in AR, Music Concert Truck, and Thai Ghost Comic Books XR, were chosen from the incubation programme for further development. Additionally, six ‘runner-up’ projects were paired with potential donors and sponsors to explore further opportunities for further development.

Announcement of Winners of the Hackathon

Endangered Species with AR
Music Truck (Rod Hae)
Thai Ghost Comic XR

UNESCO is thrilled to announce the winners of the Hackathon: Endangered Species with AR, Music Truck (Rod Kae), and Thai Ghost Comic XR! This hackathon aimed to foster innovation and creativity in addressing environmental issues, preserving cultural heritage, and promoting artistic expressions. The response we received was truly remarkable, and we are proud to recognize the outstanding teams and their projects.

Acknowledgement of Runners-Up of the Hackathon

UNESCO acknowledges the exceptional work of the runners-up, who made significant contributions to the hackathon.

Application Dong Ho Saigon
Bouncing Hopper
MEINMU
Mor Lam
Travel Visual
Virtual Residency Platform
Wai

Incubation Programme and Future Plans

The Creative Digital Incubation Programme, spanning nine weeks, will support the winners in refining their projects, developing business models, and testing the market. The programme includes technical classes, project ideation and execution, and business discussions. Over the course of the programme, the projects will undergo rigorous testing and validation, and be included in a virtual exhibition scheduled for September. This exhibition will enable the participants to showcase their products or services, receive feedback from real audiences, and further fine-tune their offerings.

At the end of the project there will be an exhibition to showcase the prototypes in virtual reality, thereby promoting greater awareness of the many potential intersections between art and technology. Furthermore, efforts will be made to connect runner-up projects with potential partners, sponsors, and donors, creating additional avenues for collaboration and growth.

The Creative Digital Lab Project, implemented under the UNESCO 2005 Convention on Protection and Promotion of the Diversity of Cultural Expressions, has empowered youth to explore the creative possibilities of the digital realm. By providing immersive technology online classes, hackathons, and incubation programmes, the project has fostered innovation, collaboration, and the development of sustainable business models. With upcoming testing and validation activities, the project further aims to contribute to the dynamic and evolving landscape of the creative and cultural sectors, driving forward the vision of the UNESCO Convention and embracing the potential of digital technology in diverse cultural expressions.

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