SLIIT hosts University of Queensland ‘Designing Solutions for Impact’ finals
SLIIT hosted Sri Lanka’s first-ever University of Queensland’s ‘Designing Solutions for Impact’ challenge recently, showcasing the potential of young minds to create meaningful solutions using technology.
Team Aero Ink from Hejaaz International School secured the firstplace, demonstrating exceptional skills and creativity and each member received brand new iPads as gifts. Team Unfazed from Trinity College Kandy received the People’s Choice award for their outstanding performance, impressing the judges for their website solution ‘Edu-Link’enabling students to upload profiles showcasing their achievements and talents.
A total of 16 teams were shortlisted for the final and pitched their creative solutions for real-world problems. All participants received certificates from the University of Queensland.
Prof. Samantha Thelijjagoda, Pro Vice-Chancellor, Research & International, SLIIT stated; “We are delighted that SLIIT hosted this innovative competition by UQ providing local high school students a platform to develop critical thinking and creative problem-solving skills. By collaborating with a globally respected institute, we can develop well-rounded, socially conscious leaders of tomorrow. Our students gained immensely, andwe look forward to advancing the partnership delivering national impact through excellence and innovation.”
The University of Queensland’s ‘Designing Solutions for Impact’ programme is an innovative inter-school competition that aims to encourage entrepreneurship amongst high school students. The groundbreaking initiative provided a platform for young minds to explore and develop entrepreneurial skills and learn how to harness the power of technology to address real-life problems.
The 5-module programme delivered online and in person over consecutive weeks, covered entrepreneurial thinking, problem identification, designing impactful solutions, communicating and storytelling, mentoring, and pitching, promoting creative business thinking targeting social good.
The final competition, was held at SLIIT’s Main Auditorium, bringing together students, educators, and representatives from SLIIT as well as the University of Queensland, Australia including Associated Prof. Saiied Aminossadati, Senior Lecturer, Deputy Associate Dean, Student Experience, Faculty of Engineering Architecture & Information Technology, Dr. Shaun Chen, Associate Lecturer, International Engagement Academic. Faculty of Engineering Architecture & Information Technology and Janardan Kewin, Regional Manager, South Asia, Faculty of Business, Economics and Law.
The projects were evaluated by a distinguished judging panel including Associated Prof. Saiied Aminossadati and Dr. Shaun Chen from the University of Queensland, Dr. Krishantha Wisenthige, Senior Lecturer, Higher Grade, Faculty of Business, SLIIT and Nadeesha Pragnarathna, Manager, Information and Communication Technology Agency, who served as an external judge. The finalists were judged on parameters such as originality, feasibility and presentation effectiveness.
Associated Prof. Saiied Aminossadati said, “I would like to express my gratitude to the Sri Lanka Institute of Information Technology (SLIIT) for graciously hosting our recent visit. This accomplishment reflects the commitment of SLIIT and UQ to nurturing and promoting excellence in education and innovation. We look forward to further collaboration and success in the future, with the success of the high school competition notably prompting plans for expansion and delivery in 2024.”
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