The future of technology came to life on 12 April 2025, as the NUS – Guru Network AI Innovation Challenge Finals brought together the brightest young minds to showcase cutting-edge Generative AI solutions designed to tackle real-world challenges.
This year’s challenge drew an overwhelming response, with over 200 teams registering, close to 100 final submissions, and a brand-new public voting segment that garnered more than 6,500 votes. After a rigorous judging process, the Top 8 finalist teams earned their place in the spotlight to pitch their innovations live at the Finals.
Jointly organised by NUS Business Analytics Centre and Guru Network, the challenge aims to inspire creativity and real-world impact through the power of AI and business analytics. In her opening remarks, Renee Wang, CEO of Guru Network, spoke about the boundless potential of Generative AI, while Professor James Pang, Co-Director of NUS Business Analytics Centre, emphasised the importance of equipping the next generation with the right tools and mindset to thrive in an AI-driven world.
From AI-powered travel planning to productivity tools for neurodiverse communities, this year’s finalists tackled a diverse range of challenges with creativity, technical finesse, and purpose-driven thinking. The presentations reflected not only the potential of GenAI but also the passion of students to create meaningful change.
Here’s a glimpse into the top-winning solutions:
🏆 Champion — AskNgo
MollyGO is an intuitive itinerary planner and real-time trip companion app. With features like customisable itineraries, smart suggestions, and real-time updates, MollyGO transforms travel planning into a seamless, personalised experience.
Team AskNgo is made up of students from NUS MSBA, NUS School of Computing (SoC) and NTU.
🏆 Champion — Jiaye
Focura is an AI-powered productivity coach tailored for individuals with ADHD. By combining behavioural science with GenAI, it provides real-time feedback and task management support — empowering users to focus and thrive.
Team Jiaye consists entirely of students from NUS MSBA.
🥉 2nd Runner-up — TheAlgorithmicallyChallenged
Their project introduces a Generative AI-powered SQL Agent that simplifies querying fragmented databases with natural language. Built using LangChain, Azure OpenAI, and SQLite, it automates schema matching and SQL generation, paving the way for scalable, accurate analytics.
The team includes students from NUS MSBA and NUS School of Computing (SoC).
In a surprising twist, the judges awarded two Champion teams this year, recognising the exceptional quality and impact of their solutions. As a result, no first runner-up was awarded, and the prize distribution reflected this special outcome:
The challenge was more than just a competition — it was a journey of ideation, mentoring, and transformation. Throughout the weeks leading to the finals, the Top 8 teams underwent mentoring by industry experts to refine and elevate their solutions. Their final presentations were a powerful testament to what young innovators can achieve when given the right platform and support.
As we wrap up another exciting chapter of the NUS – Guru Network AI Innovation Challenge, we celebrate not only the winners, but every participant who dared to dream, build, and push the boundaries of what AI can do.
With partners like Guru Network and the guidance of NUS Business Analytics Centre, we remain committed to nurturing future innovators who will shape a better, smarter world.
Let’s continue to innovate, inspire, and shape the future together!
© National University of Singapore. All Rights Reserved.
