What can a group of teenagers from six countries accomplish in just five days?
At Tel Aviv University's SummerTech program, the answer was seven fully developed AI-powered products, each pitched to senior executives at Check Point.
The intensive international program brought together 20 outstanding high school students from Hong Kong, Singapore, France, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Israel for a week of hands-on learning in science, technology, entrepreneurship, and innovation. A joint initiative of TAU Aurion, Tel Aviv University Youth University, the 8200 Alumni Association, SummerTech was designed to give participants a taste of the University's entrepreneurial ecosystem while encouraging cross-cultural collaboration.
The program was led by AI entrepreneur and 8200 alumnus Mashav Bar Orian, who challenged participants to think like innovators from day one. "Seven teams, one week, and every single team built and pitched a real AI product," Bar Orian said after the program. "I'm genuinely proud of what they accomplished."
Rather than sitting through lectures, students worked in teams to identify real-world problems, develop AI-based solutions, and transform their ideas into market-ready concepts. Along the way, they explored topics including artificial intelligence, neuroscience, tissue engineering, biomimicry, storytelling, product development, market research, and pitching, while also visiting Tel Aviv University's research laboratories.
"This course was a valuable learning experience that opened my mind to new ideas and taught me things I will apply in the future," said Shira Pardo, an 11th-grade student from Hong Kong.
The week culminated in a Demo Day hosted by Check Point, where students presented their projects to a panel of the company's senior leaders, receiving feedback from professionals working at the forefront of cybersecurity and technology.
For many participants, the experience extended well beyond technical skills.
Parents noticed the impact as well.
"Shahar had a great week. He learned a lot and had fun with all the other students," said Orly Ohayon, whose son participated in the program.
SummerTech is one of the flagship initiatives of TAU Aurion, an engagement platform created by Tel Aviv University's Resource Development Division. Designed for internationally minded leaders, entrepreneurs, philanthropists, and supporters with a strong affinity for the University, Aurion offers members unique access to TAU's people, research, and innovation ecosystem through curated events, behind-the-scenes experiences, and opportunities to help shape impactful initiatives. The community also extends these opportunities to the next generation through programs such as SummerTech, providing an immersive introduction to entrepreneurship, science, and technology while strengthening their connection to Tel Aviv University.
This article was written in collaboration with Tel Aviv University.