The goal of the Hack:Bit programme is to bring the creative ideas of young Sri Lankans to life. The competition is open to university students under the age of 28 and school students under the age of 19.

The initiative is heavily focused towards nurturing innovations that bring us closer to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including Good Health and Well Being, Life on Land, Sustainable Cities and Communities, Climate Action, Quality Education, and Decent Work and Economic Growth.

The first edition of the competition, Hack:Bit 2018, was the first 24-hour national level micro:bit-based hackathon. Organized by micro:bit SLUG, a child organization of the STEMUP Educational Foundation, the event received over 80 submissions for the pre-hack.

At the final round held at Trace Expert City, the best innovations across both school and university categories were recognized by an experienced panel of judges. The competition continues to grow, adapting to challenges—such as transitioning to a fully online format in 2020—to continually support youth innovation.