Our Story

Created in 2012 as a School Programme, we became a Centre in 2018 and have constantly grown and innovated since. With a small but committed and highly trained team, we are continuing our mission with passion and energy. This is emphasised by the support of well-known partners, being academic, NGOs or strongly convinced donors.

Our story

Innovating Since 2012

2012

Launch of EssentialTech as a school-wide program
Launch of Sustainable Development Division

2016

Launch of Humanitarian Division

2017

EPFL Master Course Development Engineering
MOOC Technology Innovation for sustainable development
MOOC Public health engineering in humanitarian contexts

2018

EssentialTech becomes an EPFL Center
Spin-off GlobalDiagnostiX – Pristem SA
Tech transfer of Agilis – ICRC Rehab’Impulse

2020

Launch of PeaceTech Division
Spin-off HelloMask – HM Care

2022

EssentialTech celebrate its 10th Anniversary
Tech Transfer SmartPPE – Ebola MSF

Our team

The People Behind Our Center

Meet our dedicated and passionate team that works tirelessly to address vulnerabilities and improve conditions for both people and the planet.

Meet the team

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Would you like to

‍join us?

Check our Job page to find out about current opportunities or contact us.

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What’s new
at the Center

Browse all our content on a variety of topics including the environment, health, education, research, innovation and much more. Find out about news and events related to our Center.

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Blog type

From Principles to Practice: AI in Humanitarian Organizations

This document is created to guide and inspire humanitarian and AI experts. It collects useful foundations and resources to foster learning and reframing of humanitarian practices. By addressing humanitarian AI challenges through the prism of the humanitarian principles, it acknowledges the inherent difficulties and leverages them to advance AI humanitarian practice through a responsible approach.

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