Step 1: Pick a systems project
Build a Zig steganography tool for PPM files, tiny HTTP server, binary file parser, toy shell, or another systems-flavored idea.
Syscall
Your first jump into systems programming.
Build a real systems project in Zig or C and get a grant to purchase hardware for your next build.
Devboards, debug probes, multimeters, oscilloscopes, hackable hardware devices — your grant, your choice.
Open to teenagers 13–18 worldwide. Track your time with Hackatime, ship open-source code, and show reviewers what you built.
SYSCALL: enter kernel space
_____ _ _ _ / ____| | | | | | | (___ _ _ ___| | __ _| | | \___ \| | | / __| |/ _` | | | ____) | |_| \__ \ | (_| | | | |_____/ \__,_|___/_|\__,_|_|_|
.------------. / SYS_CALL \ | [ 0x80 ] | | ________ | | | CPU | | | |______| | \ / '----------'
INT 0x80 -> SYSCALL [ user space ] ---> [ kernel space ]
STATUS: OPERATIONAL
GRANT: HARDWARE PURCHASE
LANGS: ZIG / C
grant_requirements{}
Step 2: Track your time with Hackatime
Track your build time with Hackatime so reviewers can see your actual effort and progress.
LOG: hackatime sync OK
Step 3: Build it and open-source it
Your project must be open-source. Share a GitHub link (or a similar public repository).
Step 4: Show reviewers how to run it
Include either a demo video or clear instructions so reviewers can test and run your project.
WARN: docs not found at 0xDEADBEEF
Step 5: Get your grant
Once approved, receive a grant to purchase devboards, debug probes, oscilloscopes, and other hackable hardware.
KERNEL.LOG / project_feed
Your Project
Your systems project will appear here once you join Syscall and submit your build. Could be a tiny HTTP server, a file parser, a toy shell — anything close to the metal.
SLOT: AVAILABLE
dmesg: SKILLS
Memory & Pointers
You poked raw memory and lived to tell the tale.
File I/O & Filesystems
You taught your program to read and write like a pro.
Network & Sockets
You made packets move and ports answer back.
Binary Formats & Parsing
You decoded bytes and made structured sense of chaos.
Concurrency & Threads
You ran tasks at once without everything exploding.
Low-level Hardware / Devices
You got close to the device layer and learned the boundaries.
Debugging & Tooling
You hunted bugs with logs, debuggers, and stubborn energy.
Zig Wizardry / C Sorcery
You cast low-level spells in Zig and C.
man syscall
Learn the stuff you need to ship your first systems project.
Zig Resources
Systems Concepts
+--------------------+ | SYSCALL v0.1 | | RESOURCE DB | | | | > HOVER A LINK | | > TO EXPLORE | | | | [READY] | +--------------------+
sys_init(): FAQ
Who's eligible?
Ages 13–18 from anywhere in the world.
Do I need prior systems programming experience?
No. You just need some coding basics and curiosity.
Do I have to use Zig, or can I use C?
Zig and C are both supported and encouraged.
What are the exact project requirements?
Track time with Hackatime, keep it open-source, and include a demo video or clear run instructions.
Is this free?
Yes. It is free for participants.
Can I join from outside the US?
Yes. Syscall is worldwide.
What if I don't finish my project?
Share progress anyway. You can still learn, get feedback, and iterate.
Is Syscall double-dippable?
No. Syscall is not double-dippable. You cannot use the same project for multiple YSWS programs.
Is this legit? Who's running Syscall?
A youth hacker community running a real program for real low-level projects.