SMCON26 · Nov 12–14, 2026 · Buea. Free with registration · Register →
12–14 NOV · BUEA
Exhibit Register free
  1. SMCON26
  2. Compete
  3. Code Battle
REGISTRATION ONGOING

Code Battle

NO AI, NO INTERNET: Just Pure Coding Skills, can you survive it?

Prize pool
3 main prices (TBA)
Entry deadline
8th November 2026
Battle Date
Fri 13 Nov · University of Buea
Builders working together around a table at SMCON22

Overview

What it is?

The SMCON26 Code Battle is an intense programming competition that puts developers' algorithmic thinking, logical reasoning, and problem-solving skills to the ultimate test. With no AI tools and no internet access, participants must rely entirely on their coding expertise to tackle challenging problems under time pressure, demonstrating speed, accuracy, and technical mastery.

Who can join: Code Battle is designed for developers, programmers, software engineers, and technically skilled students and professionals who are passionate about coding and ready to test their abilities in a competitive environment. Participants will select their preferred competition track during registration and compete against other talented developers to demonstrate their programming expertise.

Prizes

What's at stake.

1st - code gurus of the mountain

GoldAwarded at the gala

2nd  -  code masters of the mountain

Master

3rd  - code warriors of the mountain

Warrior
Prize
pool
To be announcedOne of three competitions

Eligibility

Who can enter.

Draft rules. Final rules are published with the call for entries.

  • Open to students and professionals
  • Choose your track; design or algorithm
  • All code written during the competition
  • No AI, No internet, brains and brains only

Format and timeline

How the rounds work.

  1. 01

    Registration

    Register for Code Battle, select your preferred Frontend or Backend track, and submit your application for review.

  2. 02

    Information Session

    Get familiar with the competition format, coding rules, evaluation criteria, and expectations before the battle begins.

  3. 03

    Battle & Defend

    Compete in challenging coding rounds without AI or internet access, then demonstrate your solution and explain your approach to the judges.

  4. 04

    Awards Ceremony

    Celebrate the top performers as winners are announced and prizes awarded during the SMCON26 awards ceremony.

Judging

How entries are scored.

Weights are a draft until the final rules are published.

Correctness & Functionality+40
Algorithm Efficiency & Problem-Solving+30
Code Quality & Structure+20
Explaination & Demonstration+10

Judges announced soon

Investors, founders and experts from the ecosystem.

Perks

Even if you don't win

  • Sharpen Your Skills: Strengthen your coding, algorithmic thinking, and problem-solving abilities through real challenges.
  • Get Noticed by Employers: Showcase your technical skills and gain visibility among potential employers and recruiters.
  • 1. Expand Your Network: Connect with fellow developers, tech companies, and industry professionals to explore future career opportunities.

Register

Enter the Code Battle.

Think you can code without AI or internet? Choose your track, take on challenging coding problems, and prove your skills against talented developers at SMCON26. Showcase your abilities, gain recognition, and compete for exciting prizes. Register now for the Code Battle, managed by GDG Buea.

When does registration open?

Registration is open now: register your team of 2 or 3 with the form below. The organisers tell shortlisted teams before the final Code Battle on 13 November.

Does it cost anything to enter?

No, participation in the SMCON26 Code Battle is completely free! Simply register, select your preferred competition track (Frontend Development, Algorithms, or UI/UX Design), and await confirmation of your selection. Participants must bring their own laptops. Terms and conditions apply.

Where is the final?

The Code Battle finals will take place in Buea, Cameroon, during SMCON26. The exact venue and schedule will be communicated to shortlisted participants ahead of the competition. Winners will be announced and awarded prizes on Saturday, November 14, 2026, during the SMCON26 Gala Night.

Your team

GDG Buea hosts the SMCON26 Code Battle on 13 November 2026. Form a team of 2 or 3 developers: the organisers will tell you if your team is shortlisted for the final battle.

What track do you want to belong to for the coding battle?

Participant 1

Participant 2

Participant 3 (optional)

Teams have 2 or 3 people.

Check your details

Other contests

Try another arena.

Coming soon01

Startup Pitch Contest

Startups pitch to investors and the main stage.

Prize pool
To be announced
1st prize
To be announced
Final
Sat 14 Nov · Mountain Hotel
Coming soon03

AI Movie Contest

Short films and content made with AI,

Prize pool
To be announced
1st prize
To be announced
Final
Sat 14 Nov · Mountain Hotel
Open for registration03

Hackerthon

Build solutions to solve real world problems

Prize pool
To be announced
1st prize
To be announced
Final
Sat 14 Nov · Mountain Hotel