Seeing an increased demand for global talent in data analytics and artificial intelligence, EY is launching the NextWave Data Science Challenge, which is designed to test the skills of data science students. The students will use data from Skyhook, one of the pioneers in location technology and intelligence, to solve issues related to the future of mobility and smart cities, EY says.

Students at universities in 16 countries and regions have been invited to compete, with registration now open for the online challenge. The participating countries include Australia, Belgium, Brazil, China (mainland), France, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Ireland, Malta, Nigeria, Poland, Spain, Singapore, South Africa, the United Kingdom and the United States.

EY teams will share details on the data set and assignment with registered students this month, and students will be able to submit their answers between 1 April and 10 May.

Country winners will be awarded a monetary prize and a paid internship with an EY member firm — however, conditions may vary based on country or region, EY notes.

The three top winners of all the participants will receive a badge in data science from the so-called EY Badges programme, which recognises EY professionals who learn new skills in emerging technologies.

The country winners will also be invited to EY in New York and have the chance to visit a station of the global network of growth EY wavespace. They will also be asked to deliver presentations to members of EY leadership, who will name a global winner.

“The new generation of people entering the workplace is passionate about using their talents to help change the world for the better,” says Beatriz Sanz Saiz, EY Global Data Analytics Leader, Advisory. “We are looking for the most innovative and creative aspiring data scientists who will join the EY NextWave Data Science Challenge and engage with us in the mission to infuse data analytics into every business conversation to drive real-world benefits for people,” Ms Sanz Saiz adds.

“Helping businesses in their transformation journeys in the digital age means we need to give innovative people the opportunities to apply their vision in using technology to help us discover what’s possible,” says John Distefano, EY Global Talent and Learning Leader, Advisory. “As the EY NextWave Data Science Challenge unfolds and we see how participants approach problem-solving, we look forward to discovering how these data science devotees, who are just beginning their careers, will bring new thinking to solving complex problems,” Mr Distefano added.

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