Welcome to the first edition of the WTUN newsletter in 2026; featuring a roundup of news, updates and events happening across the network.

Below you will read about the 2025-26 WTUN Exchange Programme, this year’s Student Competition and news from our members across the globe; including a call for research collaborations in the areas of dual-use technologies in advanced materials, manufacturing systems, artificial intelligence, and robotics to discussions on potential opportunities from member’s Southern Alberta Institute of Technology.

As always, if you would like to share news, updates, events or milestones via this newsletter, then please contact wtun@bradford.ac.uk.

The World Technology Universities Network Exchange Programme 2025-26 launched before Christmas. There are 18 grants available of £2000 each for staff (academic and professional services) and PhD students to visit another member institution. Exchanges are open to new projects, initiatives and teaching and learning opportunities as well as those that have been involved in previous rounds and wish to utilise the funds to continue their work.

This year we encourage exchange proposals linked to the WTUN focus areas of:

• Gender Equality

• Innovation and Entrepreneurship.

• Good Health and Wellbeing

• Quality Education

• Sustainable Cities and Communities

• Responsible Consumption and Production

• Climate Action

International collaboration between HE institutions

However, all proposals will be considered equally. As in previous years, we encourage applications which specifically seek to develop further international activities (joint modules, summer schools, joint research bids).

There will be a two-proposal limit per member institution and therefore all proposals must be approved by the sending/lead institution’s Operational Board Member.  We would love to see applications from across our entire membership and so would like to encourage applications from member institutions yet to take part in the WTUN Exchange Programme.

Go to https://www.wtu-n.net/exchanges/ for further information and to download ‘WTUN Exchange Programme Proposal and Agreement Form 2025-26’

Deadline for applications: 20 March 2026*

*Internal deadlines may apply, applicants are encouraged to contact their institutions Operational Board Member for details.

The WTUN Student Competition is Open!

We are seeking new sustainable and innovative, technological solutions to address the goals, and we invite project proposals from student teams (undergraduate, postgraduate or a combination and preferably multi-disciplinary).

We invite students to submit ideas in the form of a proposal and short video that will be assessed by our panel of judges.

Winning Entries:

Winning teams (prize per team member to max team size of 4) will receive:

1st place: £300  

2nd place: £150

3rd place: £100

In addition, the winning team will be invited to present their winning idea, virtually, at WTUC 2025. The winning team will present their project to delegates as part of the Congress programme.

For more information and to apply – www.wtu-n.net/student-competition 

Hamm-Lippstadt University of Applied Sciences

HSHL Summer School “The Business of German Engineering”

We are currently preparing our HSHL Summer School “The Business of German Engineering”. The two-week program starts on July 12^th, 2026. The Summer School is welcoming everyone who is enrolled at a university at the time of the program and is interested in the fields of business and engineering. For a successful application, students need to submit proof of knowledge of the English language at B2 level.

^{https://summerschool.hshl.de/}

The total fee for the Summer School is 1’800€, which covers all lectures, company visits, accommodation, socio-cultural activities and transportation within the program. Travel costs are not included. HSHL offers a limited number of scholarships. Students can either apply for a full scholarship (1’800€) or for a partial scholarship that covers 50% of the total costs (900€).

Selected partner universities are entitled to send a limited number of their students with scholarships to the Summer School.

Please find enclosed this years HSHL_Summer School Flyer_2026 for additional information.

For any request contact either Kathrin Köhlinger (International Office, kathrin.koehlinger@hshl.de) or Prof. Christoph Harff (christoph.harff@hshl.de)

We are looking forward to welcome your students here at Hamm-Lippstadt University of Applied Sciences!

Southern Alberta Institute of Science and Technology

Applied Research and Innovation Services (ARIS):

Centre for Innovation and Research in Advanced Manufacturing and Materials (CIRAMM)

November 2025 marked five years of operations for the Centre for Innovation and Research in Advanced Manufacturing and Materials (CIRAMM) in the Applied Research and Innovation Services (ARIS) hub at the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology.  Today, CIRAMM includes five integrated labs that are well positioned to respond to all points of the innovation cycle and reflect $16M+ invested in capabilities unique across western Canada. This anniversary coincided with SAIT being recognized as the fourth top polytechnic in a ranking of Canada’s Top 50 Research Colleges while also celebrating 20 years of Applied Research and Innovation Services.

This past fall, CIRAMM’s research chair, Dr. Hamid Rajani, along with Wade Hawkins, the research chair from the Centre for Innovation and Research in Unmanned Systems at SAIT, attended the Unlocking Horizon Europe and Czech R&D Trade Mission in Prague and Eastern Czechia. The aerospace and defence focused mission aimed to develop Canadian and Czech innovation ecosystems relations while facilitating collaboration on emerging research project collaborations.

Call for potential research collaborations:

With the 2026 NATO DIANA cohort announced in December, as one of 13 Canadian NATO DIANA testing centres, the Centre for Innovation and Research in Advanced Manufacturing and Materials (CIRAMM) invites international collaborators exploring dual-use technologies in advanced materials, manufacturing systems, artificial intelligence, and robotics to discussions on potential opportunities.

CIRAMM is currently participating in a Horizon Europe proposal invited to submit a full proposal and welcomes future collaboration opportunities through the program. Areas of interest and expertise include advanced materials, novel applications of industrial robotics, and advanced manufacturing technologies.

Academic news:

AI-Driven Learner Pathways: SAIT and APAS Collaboration

The Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT) is advancing an applied artificial intelligence project in partnership with the Alberta Post‑Secondary Application System (APAS). Through this initiative, students from the School for Advanced Digital Technology (SADT) are contributing to the development of an AI‑enabled proof of concept designed to support personalized and transparent educational planning. The system integrates program requirements, transfer routes, and labour‑market insights to produce tailored learner pathways. This collaboration reflects SAIT’s commitment to digital transformation, applied research, and enhanced access to post‑secondary education.

AI Transformation Hub and Evolving Digital Pedagogy

SAIT continues to build institutional capacity in artificial intelligence through its AI Transformation Hub, where faculty explore responsible AI use across curriculum design, assessment, and instructional workflows. Initiatives including structured Tip Trade sessions and curriculum refresh efforts support experimentation with emerging technologies and the development of new digital‑teaching models. The resulting “New Classroom” approach emphasizes interactivity, industry relevance, and the integration of future‑skills training across programs.

Strengthening Education Pathways Across the Caribbean

SAIT has expanded its international engagement through recent activities in Barbados, Jamaica, Trinidad and Guyana. Students, families, and counsellors participated in information sessions focused on the applied‑technology approach SAIT is globally recognized by. These conversations highlighted strong interest in cyber security, software development, media production, data analytics and IT service programs. The visits also supported closer relationships with regional post-secondary institutions and contributed to developing future student‑mobility pathways.

Developing Early Digital Skills Through Youth Initiatives

SAIT’s Youth Initiatives Digital Foundations program introduces learners in grades 7–12 to key areas including software development, artificial intelligence, data analytics, cybersecurity, media technology, and digital design. Delivered through applied, instructor‑led sessions, the program supports the development of early digital literacy and strengthens future‑skills pipelines for Alberta’s technology sector. This initiative creates opportunities for young learners to explore post‑secondary pathways connected to emerging fields.

SAIT’s Tech CAPCON

December 2025, marked another successful SAIT Tech CAPCON, continuing to strengthen SAIT’s profile in applied digital education through strong industry partnerships and practical learning experiences. Students demonstrate the outcomes of applied learning through their multi‑disciplinary capstone showcase featuring work from programs in software development, information systems security, artificial intelligence, data analytics, film and video production, interactive design, and IT services. Students present solutions to industry representatives and community stakeholders, demonstrating workforce‑ready skills and the collaborative nature of SAIT’s educational model.

University of Applied Sciences Upper Austria

FH Upper Austria shows how circular economy practices can help schools in Ethiopia and Ghana become cleaner and more self-sufficient

Model schools are intended to raise hygiene standards in African educational institutions. Improving living conditions across the African continent is in everyone’s best interest. The hygiene situation in schools plays a key role in health, performance, and ultimately economic well‑being. It’s about things that are taken for granted in Europe: washing hands, access to functioning toilets, and menstrual products. At the Wels Campus of FH Upper Austria, a team is working with partner universities in Ethiopia and Ghana o design model schools that operate autonomously through circular‑economy principles and provide students with a cleaner, healthier environment.

Read More

FH Upper Austria shines in the master’s ranking of the renowned Center for Higher Education Development (CHE)

Top marks once again for the Engineering degree programs at the University of Applied Sciences Upper Austria in Wels.

Anyone wishing to pursue a master’s degree in science and technology would be well advised to do so at the School of Engineering of the University of Applied Sciences Upper Austria – according to the latest ranking by the renowned German “Center for Higher Education Development” (CHE). Wels Campus received top ratings of more than 4.5 out of 5 stars, particularly in the areas of teaching quality, research orientation, student support, and study organization. Specifically, the Master’s degree programs “Materials and Process Engineering”, “Lightweight Design and Composite Materials” and “Mechanical Engineering” were included in the CHE university ranking for master’s programs this time around.

Find out more 

Short Term Programmes at FH Upper Austria (Apply Now)

International Teaching Days in Business and  Management

About the Event

Date: 18th – 20th May 2026

Target Audience: Academics teaching in relevant fields/ Researchers/ Students from different study levels/ Non-teaching staff

Language: English

Participation Fee: Free of charge for teaching attendees and students; 150 EUR participation fee for non-teaching staff

Location: University of Applied Sciences Upper Austria – Steyr Campus

The deadline for application is February 15th, 2026. The selected candidates will receive a confirmation mail shortly after the registration deadline.

fh-ooe.at/en/international/exchange-students/events/international-teaching-days

University of Bradford

Professor Gillian Murray appointed as University’s next Vice-Chancellor

She will take up her post in July, moving from Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh, where she has spent nine years as Deputy Principal (Enterprise and Business).

Her expertise in driving research partnerships has resulted in Heriot-Watt doubling its research and knowledge exchange income and transforming cutting-edge research into real world impact through spearheading the university’s enterprise ecosystem.

She says: “I am very much looking forward to joining the University of Bradford. Like many universities, Bradford continues to face significant external challenges, but with a new strategy in place and new opportunities to grasp, I know that, together, we can build on its strong history to achieve our future ambitions.”

Full announcement

Do you know someone in your university who would be interested in this newsletter? Forward the email to colleagues or share the link with your networks. 

All members are invited to contribute to this newsletter through their Operational Board Member (found here). Please contact your Operational Board member with stories or events which will be of relevance to the shared vision and commitments of the WTUN and its members, inspiring opportunity for engagement on commonalities, sharing knowledge, or collaboration.

All calls for content can be shared with the WTUN Secretariat at wtun@bradford.ac.uk. 

To discuss joining the World Technology Universities Network, please contact the WTUN Development Manager:
Denise Whitehead
Email: wtun@bradford.ac.uk

Welcome to the latest edition of the WTUN newsletter featuring a roundup of news, updates and events happening across the network.

Special Message: Tropical Cyclone and Severe Flooding in Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia and Sri Lanka

On behalf of the World Technology Universities Network, we extend our sincere sympathy and solidarity to the Thaksin University community in the wake of the devastating floods affecting Songkhla and Phatthalung. For those who recently attended the World Technology Universities Congress at TSU, the unimaginable level of destruction is even more difficult to comprehend.

We commend the university’s swift and compassionate response in implementing urgent measures to support students, including tuition relief, extended payment deadlines, scholarships, and welfare initiatives. These actions reflect Thaksin University’s strong commitment to safeguarding education and caring for its community. As a global network, WTUN stands firmly beside Thaksin University. Please be assured that your colleagues across the world are keeping you in our thoughts and remain ready to provide encouragement, collaboration, and support as you work toward recovery and resilience.

Our deepest concern is for the safety and well-being of all who have been affected by these events, including Malaysia, Indonesia, and Sri Lanka.

Professor Michael Affenzeller and Dr Chawin Chantharasenawong on behalf of WTUN.

World Technology Universities Congress 2026

Save the Date!

The WTUN Student Competition is Open

We are seeking new sustainable and innovative, technological solutions to address the goals, and we invite project proposals from student teams (undergraduate, postgraduate or a combination and preferably multi-disciplinary).

We invite students to submit ideas in the form of a proposal and short video that will be assessed by our panel of judges.

Winning Entries:

Winning teams (prize per team member to max team size of 4) will receive:

1st place: £300  

2nd place: £150

3rd place: £100

In addition, the winning team will be invited to present their winning idea, virtually, at WTUC 2025. The winning team will present their project to delegates as part of the Congress programme.

For more information and to apply – www.wtu-n.net/student-competition 

Atlantic Technological University

Can a Game Really Teach Children Health Literacy?

Last week saw the launch of the EU Erasmus+ HealthCraft Project outputs, an innovative, engaging way to teach health literacy to children aged 8–12 using Minecraft Education Edition.

HealthCraft is an EU-funded Erasmus+ initiative that promotes the health & wellbeing of primary school children through education and encouraging self-awareness. The ready-to-use resources provide teachers & parents with easily accessible tools to promote healthy habits. The resources make teaching & learning fun through innovative digital and gamification techniques using Minecraft Education Worlds and bite-sized videos.

The HealthCraft project is not just about educating children on the importance of a healthy lifestyle, but it also aims to develop key competences among both children and trainers using innovative approaches. The project acknowledges that children’s eating patterns and lifestyle are influenced by several factors, and it aims to address these issues through engaging and informative methods that can help children develop healthy habits. With the contribution of training videos and video games, HealthCraft seeks to revolutionize the way we approach health education and make it an enjoyable experience for both children and trainers. More specifically, we will leverage the popularity of Minecraft to create a fun and interactive learning experience that appeals to young children aged 8-12 years during their formative years, where the learning has the most profound impact on their development.

https://healthcraft.erasmusplus.website/

University of Applied Sciences Upper Austria

New Hydrogen Research Center at FH Upper Austria

Hydrogen is considered key to a secure and climate-friendly energy future. With its newly opened H2 research center, the University of Applied Sciences Upper Austria is making a significant contribution to supporting domestic industry in implementing its projects and playing a leading role in hydrogen research. A total of €7.6 million has been invested in the infrastructure and construction of the hydrogen research center in Wels since 2023.

Read More

Student Exchange with a Twist: Why international IT students at the Hagenberg Campus are trying to control Africa’s water hyacinths.

Water hyacinths are native to South America – not Africa. So, at first glance, this wouldn’t seem like the typical topic for an international exchange program involving IT students from Belgium, the Netherlands, Spain, South Africa, and the University of Applied Sciences Upper Austria (FH Upper Austria) at its Hagenberg Campus. But when African lakes are threatened by this biological “invader” and GPS-powered sensor technology offers a way to tackle the issue, the ideas of top IT students suddenly become highly relevant. Since late October, these students have gathered at FH Upper Austria’s renowned IT hub for a three-week innovation sprint.

The program, called “International Minor: Global Acting in IT,” is a collaboration between FH Upper Austria’s School of Informatics in Hagenberg and four partner institutions: Belgian Campus in Pretoria (South Africa), PXL University of Applied Sciences in Hasselt (Belgium), Fontys ICT in Eindhoven (Netherlands), and Universidad de Lleida (Spain). Students from these universities spend three weeks at each partner institution, working together on a shared project.

Find out more about this project

Short Term Programmes at FH Upper Austria (Apply Now)

International Teaching Days in Business and  Management

About the Event

Date: 18th – 20th May 2026

Target Audience: Academics teaching in relevant fields/ Researchers/ Students from different study levels/ Non-teaching staff

Language: English

Participation Fee: Free of charge for teaching attendees and students; 150 EUR participation fee for non-teaching staff

Location: University of Applied Sciences Upper Austria – Steyr Campus

fh-ooe.at/en/international/exchange-students/events/international-teaching-days

University of Bradford

2024/25 Research and Innovation Annual Report

The University of Bradford have launched their 2024/25 Research and Innovation Annual Report.

“The annual report highlights the impact our research is having on both local and global stages. At the University of Bradford we see things differently and work together to drive sustainable social, cultural and economic development.

Our report showcases 20 of our top stories from the past year and how we’re using our ‘different’ to make a difference”.

Read the full report HERE

Do you know someone in your university who would be interested in this newsletter? Forward the email to colleagues or share the link with your networks. 

All members are invited to contribute to this newsletter through their Operational Board Member (found here). Please contact your Operational Board member with stories or events which will be of relevance to the shared vision and commitments of the WTUN and its members, inspiring opportunity for engagement on commonalities, sharing knowledge, or collaboration.

All calls for content can be shared with the WTUN Secretariat at wtun@bradford.ac.uk. 

To discuss joining the World Technology Universities Network, please contact the WTUN Development Manager:
Denise Whitehead
Email: wtun@bradford.ac.uk

Welcome to the latest edition of the WTUN newsletter featuring a roundup of news, updates and events happening across the network.

Below you will read an interview with our BC Scholarship Prize recipient, a speaker announcement for our WTUC2025 sessions, and news from our members across the globe.

As always, if you would like to share news, updates, events or milestones via this newsletter, then please contact wtun@bradford.ac.uk.

Reflecting on WTUC 2025: Glocalization

Congress Special

From 20-22 October, the 10th World Technology Universities Network Congress (WTUC 2025) brought together global thought leaders, educators, and innovators from WTUN member universities. Hosted by Thaksin University in Songkhla, Thailand, under the theme “The Glocalization: Functional Role of Higher Education from Local to Global,” the Congress explored how technology universities can simultaneously serve local communities and contribute to global progress.

www.wtu-n.net/2025-congress

WTUC2025 began with a compelling address by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nathapong Chitniratna, President, Thaksin University, who emphasised the vital role of technology universities in driving social development. His speech highlighted the importance of community engagement, innovation and the responsibility of higher education institutions to serve as catalysts for both local transformation and global progress. This set the tone for a Congress focused on actionable collaboration and meaningful impact.

The central theme of WTUC 2025 was the concept of glocalization—the strategic balance between global engagement and local impact. Technology universities are increasingly expected to contribute to international research and innovation while remaining deeply connected to the needs of their local communities. This dual focus is shaping the future of higher education.

The Congress highlighted the power of social innovation in driving regional development. Through place-based approaches, technology universities are collaborating with industry and government to address local challenges. These partnerships are not only strengthening community ties but also ensuring that academic research leads to tangible, real-world solutions. Sustainability emerged as a critical priority, with sessions emphasising the importance of university-industry partnerships in advancing the UN Sustainable Development Goals. From climate resilience to clean energy innovation, these collaborations are essential for creating a more sustainable future.

Another key focus was the ongoing digital transformation of education. Technology is making learning more inclusive and adaptable, with artificial intelligence and hybrid models leading the way. These tools are helping institutions personalise learning experiences and expand access to education, particularly for underserved populations. Artificial intelligence was also recognised as a catalyst for inclusive innovation. Its potential to personalise education and support learners from diverse backgrounds is reshaping how universities approach teaching and learning. AI is helping to bridge gaps and create more equitable access to knowledge.

Finally, WTUC 2025 reaffirmed the role of the World Technology Universities Network (WTUN) in fostering global collaboration. The Congress showcased how cross-border partnerships, knowledge exchange, and co-created solutions are vital to addressing shared challenges and driving progress across the higher education sector.

As we return to our institutions, the conversations and connections from WTUC 2025 will continue to inspire action. Whether through research collaborations, student exchanges, or community engagement, the WTUN community remains committed to advancing the dual mission of technology education, those of local relevance and global excellence.

On behalf of WTUN Chair Michael Affenzeller and the World Technology Universities Network community we extend our sincere and personal thanks for the exceptional organisation and overwhelming hospitality of WTUC 2025 host Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nathapong Chitniratna and all at Thaksin University.

View photo gallery- https://www.sikram.co/gallery/wetsu_WTUC%202025

Consent to share speaker slides has been requested. We will update the programme pages with a link to all slides in due course.

Watch this space!  3-5 November 2026,

WTUC 2026 hosted by University of Applied Sciences Upper-Austria.

Southern Alberta Institute of Technology

Following Imperial’s donation of its research lab facility — the single largest corporate gift to any post-secondary institution in Alberta — the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT) and Imperial celebrated the official launch on September 4, 2025 of a new chapter in sustainable energy research and collaboration at the Imperial Energy Innovation Centre.

The monumental $37.5-million investment in applied energy research is a bold step toward shaping the future of innovation — creating a new ecosystem where industry professionals, leading researchers in petroleum engineering and students pursuing dynamic careers in energy can come together to create lasting impact.

This 44,000 square foot state-of-the-art facility will operate under SAIT’s Applied Research and Innovation Services (ARIS) Hub to support the next generation of thinkers and innovators, driving the future of sustainable energy. The Imperial Energy Innovation Centre will be a launchpad for applied energy research, student and industry collaboration and innovation in Canada’s energy sector.

During the event, Imperial announced an additional investment of $300,000 to drive student-led innovation through the newly established Imperial Innovative Student Project Fund.   The new initiative will provide critical financial support for students ready to move an idea from theory into practice and discover new real-world solutions to major challenges across industries.  An investment of this kind enables students to take innovative, classroom-based capstone projects to the next level and accelerate their hands-on learning experience.

https://www.sait.ca/news/media-releases/2025/09/imperial-energy-innovation-centre-opens

Suranaree University of Technology

Student Opportunity – Applications Open! 

SUT Global Entrepreneurship Camp 2026 (GEC2026): ‘Sustainable and Resilient Communities: Innovating for a Healthier Planet and People’ 

January 30 to February 9, 2026, Bangkok & Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand. 

Application: Open until November 15 2025 

Extended deadline: 30 November 2025

*Early Registration is recommended especially for participants who need a visa to enter Thailand.  

The camp will bring together 90 students from partner universities worldwide to explore entrepreneurship, innovation, and sustainability through workshops, site visits, cultural exchanges, and collaborative activities. 

This year’s program includes a Bangkok Startup Ecosystem Tour, Eco & Community Tourism in Khao Yai, Lean Startup & Entrepreneurship Workshops, Business Idea Pitching, and Thai Cultural & City Exploration. 

• Undergraduate or postgraduate students from WTUN member universities are eligible to apply. Please note, there is a maximum of 6 students per university. 
• Program Fee*: USD 350 per person 
• Application Deadline: November 15, 2025 
• Application Form: https://forms.gle/H4fwpfJ5smeuUmWZ9 

*The program fee includes accommodation, local transportation, meals during program days, workshops & excursions and airport pick-up/drop-off. 

For more information about past camps and participant experiences, you may visit our official website: https://sites.google.com/view/sut-gec/home 

If you require further information or assistance, please feel free to contact the team at: global.entrepreneurship.sut@gmail.com 

Do you know someone in your university who would be interested in this newsletter? Forward the email to colleagues or share the link with your networks. 

All members are invited to contribute to this newsletter through their Operational Board Member (found here). Please contact your Operational Board member with stories or events which will be of relevance to the shared vision and commitments of the WTUN and its members, inspiring opportunity for engagement on commonalities, sharing knowledge, or collaboration.

All calls for content can be shared with the WTUN Secretariat at wtun@bradford.ac.uk. 

To discuss joining the World Technology Universities Network, please contact the WTUN Development Manager:
Denise Whitehead
Email: wtun@bradford.ac.uk