On September 11, 2026, Prof. Yaw Nyarko and Rasa Karapandza hosted the CTED Blockchain & Innovation Exchange at NYU Abu Dhabi. The event brought together around 100 attendees to explore CTED’s research and student-led ideas connecting emerging technologies with real-world challenges. The students were introduced to CTED’s ongoing projects in blockchain, AI, and economics across emerging economies. 17 student innovators then took center stage to pitch concepts spanning agriculture, education, financial services, and environmental sustainability, while receiving feedback from faculty and peers. The event also featured meaningful virtual interactions between Ghana-based researchers, students, and participants, fostering cross-country collaboration and exchange.

We gratefully acknowledge Ripple for its funding and support of university blockchain research. We also thank the NYUAD Career Development Center, the Blockchain Club, the CTED team, and all participating students.