October 2026

WTUN in Action: Collaboration, Innovation and Global Impact

In this issue: WTUN Collaboration Month | Responsible AI in Research | International Research Partnerships | Hydrogen Innovation | Mobility, Applied Research and Student Success

Welcome to the latest edition of the WTUN Newsletter, featuring news, opportunities and achievements from across the Network. This is one of our most content-rich editions, showcasing the breadth of activity taking place across WTUN. Thank you to all members who have contributed stories, research highlights and updates. Your contributions help strengthen connections across the Network and inspire new opportunities for collaboration.

In this edition, we launch WTUN Collaboration Month, introducing two December events designed to foster new partnerships and share best practice across the membership. We also feature the latest WTUN Research Blog from Dr Akiko Ueno (University of Bradford), exploring the opportunities and challenges of using generative AI in research. Across the Network, members share inspiring stories of collaboration, research excellence and innovation, from Ahlia University’s growing global research profile and the INFUSE project at Hamm-Lippstadt University of Applied Sciences, to research breakthroughs at FH Upper Austria and SAIT’s impactful work in applied research, entrepreneurship and industry engagement.

Together, these stories demonstrate the expertise, innovation and collaborative spirit that make WTUN a truly global network. We hope you enjoy this edition and discover new opportunities to connect, collaborate and engage with colleagues across the WTUN community.

If you would like to share news, events, research highlights or success stories in a future edition, please contact the WTUN Secretariat at wtun@bradford.ac.uk.

WTUN Collaboration Month

December 2026

As WTUN continues to strengthen connections across the Network, December will feature two complementary online events designed to help members learn from successful collaborations and develop new partnerships for the year ahead.

Whether you are looking to expand your international network, identify research collaborators, explore mobility opportunities or share partnership experiences, we encourage colleagues from across WTUN to get involved.

📅 Thursday 3 December 2026

12.00-13.30 GMT

Building Successful International Partnerships

This webinar will bring together speakers from across the WTUN membership to share practical insights into developing and sustaining successful international partnerships.

Topics will include:

• Research collaboration
• Student and staff mobility
• Industry engagement and innovation
• Strategic institutional partnerships
• Lessons learned and good practice

The session will showcase real examples of international collaboration and provide practical advice for colleagues seeking to develop similar initiatives within their own institutions.

We are currently seeking speaker nominations from member institutions. Further details will be circulated shortly.

📅 Wednesday 16 December 2026

WTUN Global Connections Forum

Following the webinar, members are invited to participate in the inaugural WTUN Global Connections Forum.

Unlike a traditional webinar, this interactive networking event will focus on helping colleagues make new connections, identify opportunities for collaboration and contribute ideas for future WTUN activities. To accommodate members across different regions, the forum will be offered in two identical sessions:

🌏 Session A: Asia-Pacific, Middle East & Europe
08:00-09:30 GMT

🌎 Session B: Europe, Middle East & Americas
15:00-16:30 GMT

Participants will have the opportunity to join themed discussions on topics such as:

• Artificial Intelligence and Digital Innovation
• Sustainability and Climate Action
• Clean Energy
• Water Security
• Research Funding and Partnerships
• Student Mobility and Internationalisation
• Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

Get Involved

December’s events are designed to help transform conversations into collaborations. We encourage each WTUN member institution to participate by:

• Nominating speakers for the webinar.
• Encouraging colleagues to attend the Global Connections Forum.
• Sharing examples of successful partnerships and collaborative activities.
• Identifying areas where collaboration with other WTUN members could add value.

Further details, speaker calls and registration information will be shared in the coming weeks.

Let’s finish 2026 by strengthening the connections that make WTUN a truly global network.

Is GenAI safe to use in research?

Introducing Dr Akiko Ueno, Associate Professor of Marketing, University of Bradford,

Department / Research Area: Human Technology and Innovation Research Cluster, Faculty of Management, Science and Engineering

Email Contact: a.ueno@bradford.ac.uk

In April 2025, I attended an online workshop on generative AI led by Dr Shubin Yu. I thought I was reasonably knowledgeable about research methods and digital technologies. A few hours later, I found myself wondering: “Am I working in the Stone Age?”

I am an Associate Professor in Marketing and Head of Research Cluster: Humane Technology and Innovation at the School of Management, researching how emerging technologies affect people’s lives. Seeing how AI could change research practices I had spent years developing was exciting and slightly unsettling. I wanted to learn more, and to give other researchers the opportunity to explore these tools critically.

One question stayed with me: how could we use them while maintaining trust in our research? 

Generative artificial intelligence, or GenAI, creates content such as text, images or computer code in response to instructions. Familiar examples include ChatGPT. Other tools help researchers explore published studies, work with data or build applications. Some use external online services; others run on an organisation’s own computers. Their capabilities and safeguards differ. For me, safe use depends on the task, the information shared and whether the researcher can check the result. A tool suitable for improving a plain-language explanation of published research may be unsuitable for handling confidential interviews.

Read the full article on the WTUN website to discover how researchers can harness the benefits of AI while safeguarding research quality, transparency and trust.

About

Akiko Ueno (PhD) is an Associate Professor of Marketing, specialising in the intersections of consumer wellbeing and the impact of emerging technologies, and she has recently completed a research project into Digital Poverty in the UK, funded by the British Academy. Her research has been disseminated through leading academic outlets, including but not limited to the British Educational Research Journal, International Business Review, Journal of International Marketing, and Technological Forecasting & Social Change.

www.bradford.ac.uk/staff/aueno

Keywords:

GenAI | Emerging technologies | Inclusive technologies | Digital exclusion | Wellbeing

Call for content!

If you are interested in contributing to future editions of this blog, please contact wtun@bradford.ac.uk and a submission template will be shared with you.  

Ahlia University

Research Without Borders: Ahlia University’s Growing Global Impact

At Ahlia University, international engagement is about fostering research networks of impact that bring together scholars, institutions and ideas around shared challenges. As a founding member of the World Technology Universities Network (WTUN), Ahlia shares its commitment to international mobility, collaborative research and knowledge exchange, using these connections to extend the reach of research, strengthen partnerships and translate knowledge into meaningful outcomes for society.

Ahlia’s Growing Global Profile

Ahlia University’s research development has gained significant international recognition. In September 2026, Ahlia made a historic debut in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2027, entering at 299^th in the world and becoming the first university in Bahrain to reach the world’s top 300.

The achievement exceeded the University’s strategic target of reaching the world’s top 500 by 2030. It also builds on Ahlia’s strong regional performance, with the University ranked 12^th in the Arab world in the Times Higher Education Arab University Rankings 2026.

Ahlia University’s research output continues to grow in both volume and quality. The University recorded 262 Scopus and/or Web of Science-indexed publications in 2025, followed by 172 between January and September 2026.

The proportion of publications in Q1 and Q2 journals also increased significantly, from 81.88% in 2025 to 95.83% in 2026.

International collaboration is an important part of this growth. Ahlia recorded 197 internationally co-authored publications in 2025, with a further 101 identified between January and September 2026, reflecting the University’s expanding global research networks.

The impact of this research also extends to global challenges. Across 2025 and January–September 2026, 29 publications were aligned with priority SDGs including health, gender equality, clean water and sustainable cities, reflecting Ahlia’s commitment to research with societal relevance and impact.

Turning Mobility into Collaboration

Across 2025 and 2026, Ahlia University participated in five WTUN academic exchanges with Atlantic Technological University (ATU), Ireland, and the University of Bradford, demonstrating how mobility can develop into meaningful collaboration.

In 2025, Ammar Al-Hawaj undertook a visiting academic exchange at ATU, engaging with students and faculty and delivering a session on sustainability in marketing and luxury goods. Esra Aldhaen also joined the University of Bradford as a visiting academic, sharing expertise on research visibility and alignment with the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

The programme expanded in 2026, with Ahlia welcoming Gabriela Gliga from ATU as a keynote speaker at its IX Equal Opportunities Conference. Noor Alsayed also undertook an exchange visit to ATU focused on innovation and industry-linked research, while Fatema Aldhaen is scheduled to visit the University of Bradford during 2026.

From exchange to research output

The impact of these relationships is already visible in Ahlia’s publication record. Across 2025 and 2026, Ahlia researchers produced three Scopus-indexed publications with the University of Bradford, including the edited books “Ethical Standards for Technological and Business Education Sustainability” and “Sustainable Leadership for Business Education and Societal Impact”.

In 2026, an Ahlia researcher also co-authored a peer-reviewed conference proceedings paper with Atlantic Technological University, Ireland, on sustainability education and paradox literacy in higher education. Together, these outputs demonstrate how international collaboration can translate into tangible scholarly outcomes.

Hamm-Lippstadt University of Applied Sciences

WTUN Members Work Together:

I.N.F.U.S.E.: Building an International Network for Future Universal Skills Education

INFUSE is a DAAD-funded international cooperation project coordinated by Hamm-Lippstadt University of Applied Sciences (HSHL). The project runs from 2026 to 2028 and brings together partner universities from Germany, Thailand, Jordan, India and Japan. The aim of INFUSE is to strengthen the internationalisation of teaching and learning by creating formats that allow more students to gain international and intercultural experience. A particular focus is on students who may not easily be able to participate in longer periods of physical mobility abroad.

A central element of the project is Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL). In these formats, students and lecturers from different partner universities work together digitally on shared topics and projects. This gives students the opportunity to collaborate across countries and disciplines while developing skills such as intercultural communication, teamwork, digital collaboration and problem-solving.

The project also includes mobility activities, partner visits, workshops and the development of micro-credentials. The aim is to connect virtual and physical forms of international learning and to integrate them more closely into regular study programmes.

The INFUSE consortium includes:

• Hamm-Lippstadt University of Applied Sciences, Germany
• Suranaree University of Technology (SUT), Thailand
• German Jordanian University, Jordan
• Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology, (KIIT) India
• Saitama University, Japan

Two of the international partners, Suranaree University of Technology (SUT) and KIIT are members of the WTUN. INFUSE is therefore also a good example of how contacts and relationships within an existing international university network can develop into more intensive cooperation and a jointly funded project.

The official INFUSE Kick-Off Meeting took place from 29 September to 1 October 2026 in Lippstadt. During the meeting, the partners presented their institutions, discussed the project goals and worked on the first COIL groups, mobility activities and next steps.

The Kick-Off was also an important opportunity to meet in person, build trust and develop a shared understanding of the project. With the first activities now underway, INFUSE is moving from project planning into implementation and will continue to develop new forms of international teaching and cooperation over the coming years.

University of Applied Sciences

Upper Austria

FH Upper Austria secures €3 million in federal funding for research into future-focused topics amid strong competition.

Achieving Sustainability Goals Through Technology

A total of nearly €3 million in funding has been awarded to FH Upper Austria’s Wels Campus for three new research projects. The funding will support both the university’s materials research activities and the Hydrogen Research Center, which opened only last year.

Specific focus is placed on reliable Materials for Hydrogen Transport and Storage as well as 3D-Printed Components for Hydrogen Applications and Innovative Films for Environmentally Friendly Plastic Packaging

Hydrogen Research Center Secures Funding and Welcomes High-Level EU Delegation

Hydrogen is a game changer for both industry and climate protection. The establishment of the Hydrogen Research Center at the University of Applied Sciences Upper Austria in Wels, which officially opened in autumn 2025, was supported through EU funding from the Just Transition Fund (JTF). In the first phase, a total of €11.6 million was invested in the Wels research center by the Province of Upper Austria and the European Union.

More information: https://fh-ooe.at/en/news/hydrogen-research-center-in-wels-secures-funding-and-welcomes-high-level-eu-delegation

Two graduates of the Embedded Systems Design (ESD) program at the University of Applied Sciences Upper Austria, School of Informatics, Communication and Media had the opportunity to present their Master’s theses as conference papers at one of Europe’s leading simulation conferences. The quality of their research in the fields of facial recognition and AI as well as runtime latency analysis impressed the review committee, and Lukas Damianschitz ultimately returned home with the Best Paper Award. The conference focuses on the application of modeling and simulation in industry, making it an excellent fit for the practice-oriented and industry-focused approach to education in Hagenberg.

More information: https://fh-ooe.at/en/news/masterarbeit-von-hagenberger-absolventen-bei-europaeischer-fachkonferenz-zu-modellierung-und-simulation-in-genua-ausgezeichnet

Southern Alberta Institute of Technology

Applied Research and Innovation Services (ARIS) recently participated in the 2026 Arctic Circle Assembly in Iceland

Challenges are best addressed together! SAIT’s Applied Research and Innovation Services (ARIS) recently participated in the 2026 Arctic Circle Assembly in Iceland, one of the world’s leading forums on Arctic issues, bringing together global leaders, researchers, policymakers and industry experts.

The event provided valuable opportunities to connect with communities, organizations, businesses, leading researchers and government representatives from across the globe. Through these conversations, ARIS strengthened relationships with key contributors in the Arctic ecosystem and explored how SAIT can play a meaningful role in addressing emerging opportunities and challenges across the North through applied research, innovation, skills development and partnership.

Additionally, ARIS is a member of the University of the Arctic (UArctic) Thematic Network on Solid Waste Management in the Arctic and is working with partners to better understand Arctic priorities and contribute to solutions that address challenges related to waste management, resource recovery and environmental stewardship. Empowered by local knowledge and international level academic expertise, the UArctic network supports knowledge mobilization and the development of solutions for challenges in the Arctic.

ARIS is committed to supporting innovation that makes a difference and supports communities around the world. Please reach out to the ARIS Director, Jodi David, Jodi.David@sait.ca to learn more about ARIS and/or discuss any partnership opportunities.

Remotely piloted aviation training, applied research and innovation and strategic  industry engagement

On Thursday, Oct. 8, 2026 — plans were unveiled for the Bissett Autonomous Aviation Park at the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT) — a one-of-a-kind facility dedicated to the training, testing and certification of remotely piloted and autonomous aircraft.

Made possible by a $30-million gift from Calgary philanthropist and long-time SAIT supporter David Bissett, the transformational investment will pave the way for the future of autonomous aviation innovation, applied research and industry readiness in Calgary and Alberta. With $6 million earmarked to support student awards, this investment will increase access to remotely piloted aircraft systems (RPAS) education. Using advanced sensor technology and software to navigate flight with human oversight, RPAS innovation and technology is changing how industries can operate more efficiently and safely.

“We’ve trained aviation professionals since 1928. From our humble beginnings to delivering industry-leading education in aircraft maintenance, structures, avionics and remotely piloted aircraft systems, SAIT has established its place as a leader in aviation education,” says Dr. David Ross, President and CEO, SAIT. “This gift will cement SAIT’s position at the centre of autonomous aviation in western Canada.”

Students will be participants rather than observers at the aviation park — working on research projects, field testing and learning directly from SAIT’s industry partners. They’ll train, test and fly autonomous aircraft systems alongside industry partners at the facility, and work-integrated learning opportunities will connect them directly to companies building Calgary’s aviation future.

“SAIT continues to open new doors in aviation training and today’s announcement recognizes our industry-leading expertise in a rapidly developing aviation and aerospace ecosystem,” says Lynda Holden, Dean, SAIT’s School of Transportation and School of Manufacturing and Automation. “The aviation park will expand SAIT’s autonomous aviation training capacity and prepare students with the skills and expertise to shape the future of Alberta’s aerospace sector.”

In 2023, SAIT launched western Canada’s first Professional Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems certificate, and to meet demands of the rapidly growing sector, the first Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems diploma was launched this fall.

How a Muddy Memory from Childhood Sparked a SAIT Student’s  Startup

A childhood fall into a sewer in the Philippines left SAIT Software Development student Sophia Perez with more than a muddy memory – it inspired ForeSite, a startup that predicts erosion risks before heavy rainfall. Supported by faculty, classmates and SAIT’s entrepreneurial community, Sophia transformed a side project into a promising real-world solution.

Through Enactus, she developed her business model and placed third in her first pitch competition. Now, through Labs4 in SAIT’s Applied Research and Innovation Services Lab, she is testing ForeSite with real sensor data and preparing for commercialization. With her first pilot partner secured, Sophia is seeking Alberta construction companies ready to help protect waterways before the rain begins.

Read Full Story

Beyond the spotlight: How students made FutureTech happen

FutureTech gave students the opportunity to do more than showcase ideas. It challenged them to deliver a high-profile event from the inside out. Administrative Information Management and Film and Video Production students worked side by side to plan, coordinate, capture and execute a live event attended by investors, entrepreneurs and industry leaders. With real audiences, real stakeholders and no reset button, students developed confidence, adaptability and professional judgement while seeing the direct impact of their work. Supported by dedicated faculty and connected to industry, the experience reflects SADT’s commitment to Student Success, experiential learning, and preparing graduates to thrive in complex, collaborative workplaces.

Read Full Story

Lights, Camera, Industry: SADT Students Step Into the Field at Energy Disruptors

Third-semester Business of Film students recently traded the classroom for a live production environment at the Energy Disruptors conference, working alongside industry professionals to capture interviews, keynote sessions and event coverage. Operating cameras, managing audio, and producing content in real time, students gained hands-on experience that mirrors the expectations of the creative industries they are preparing to enter. The project has already generated momentum, with several student teams continuing to develop the footage into new media projects. This experience reflects SADT’s commitment to Student Success through applied learning, Faculty and Staff Excellence through industry-connected instruction, and Industry Partnership by creating authentic opportunities for students to build professional skills and confidence.

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

September 2026

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

For some, September saw the start of the new academic year. For 2026-27 collaboration, innovation and global engagement continue to be at the heart of the World Technology Universities Network. This month’s newsletter showcases how WTUN members are working together across borders to address real-world challenges, advance impactful research, and create opportunities for students, academics and professional staff alike.

In this edition, we reflect on WTUN’s successful participation at EAIE 2026 in Glasgow, where we connected with members, partners and prospective collaborators from around the world. We also feature the latest contribution to the WTUN Research Blog, where Dr Mohd Adib bin Sarijari from Universiti Teknologi Malaysia explores how digital technologies, IoT and artificial intelligence are transforming security operations through the development of GuardExpert Pro, helping build safer and more resilient communities.

You’ll also discover inspiring examples of international partnership in action, including an academic exchange between Atlantic Technological University and Majan University College, opportunities for postgraduate researchers to engage with the University of Bradford PGR Conference 2026, and highlights from SAIT’s Applied Research and Innovation Services, demonstrating the impact of applied research and industry collaboration.

We are proud to celebrate the achievements, expertise and innovation taking place across our member institutions and to showcase opportunities for future collaboration throughout the WTUN community.

As you read through this edition, we encourage you to explore the collaboration opportunities, connect with fellow members at upcoming events, and consider how your institution can contribute to the growing impact of the WTUN community. Whether through research partnerships, staff and student mobility, knowledge exchange, or sharing your own success stories, your engagement helps strengthen our global network.

If you would like to share news, events, research highlights or success stories in a future edition, please contact the WTUN Secretariat at wtun@bradford.ac.uk.

WTUC at EAIE 2026

Thank you to everyone who visited the WTUN stand at EAIE 2026. It was a pleasure to connect with so many colleagues, partners, and prospective members who share the vision of the World Technology Universities Network and are equally enthusiastic about the opportunities that international collaboration can create.

EAIE once again provided a valuable opportunity to strengthen existing relationships, build new connections, and exchange ideas with institutions committed to addressing global challenges through education, research, and innovation.

It was particularly rewarding to catch up with colleagues from across our member universities and discuss future opportunities for partnership and engagement throughout the network.

Fortunately, there is not long to wait until we come together again at WTUC 2026, kindly hosted by University of Applied Sciences Upper Austria. We look forward to seeing many of you there in November!

From Paper Trails to Smarter Streets: Securing Communities Through Digital Patrolling

Introducing Dr Mohd Adib bin Sarijari, Senior Lecturer,Universiti Teknologi Malaysia

Department / Research Area: Membrane Technology

Email Contact: madib@utm.my

Back in 2017, the  Security Division at Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) approached our research group, TeSS, with a glaring challenge. They were struggling to manage  physical security patrols effectively. Guard accountability, transparency, and  incident reporting were still heavily reliant on manual paperwork and  old-school logging. Around the same time, several of our industry partners  echoed the exact same concerns. It became clear that this wasn’t just a local  issue—it was a systemic vulnerability across the entire security landscape.

Driven by the desire to make communities genuinely safer, we asked ourselves how we could use technology to completely bridge this gap. This spark gave life to GuardExpert Pro, a smart security patrolling platform born directly from real-world problems and refined through academic innovation.

Translating a lab prototype into a physical, rugged tool used in the field is a massive journey. In the early days, our research focused on harnessing the power of the Internet of Things (IoT), Artificial Intelligence (AI), and Data Analytics to optimize tracking. But a piece of tech is only as good as its real-world execution.

This is where UTM’s campus as a “Living Lab” became our greatest asset. Our university’s security teams deployed GuardExpert Pro in its infancy, providing immediate operational feedback. We walked alongside guards to understand their environment. We learned that connection drops in basement parkings or high-rise structures are inevitable. This led us to develop an intelligent offline mode, allowing guards to log checkpoints seamlessly without internet access, syncing securely the moment they reconnect. Through UTM’s spin-off company, Significs Technologies Sdn. Bhd., we bridged academia and industry, turning deep research into a commercially viable, practical platform.

Global Relevance & WTUN Context

Security and community resilience are inherently global concerns. Our project directly aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (UNSDG) 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities.

As modern urban centers grow rapidly, maintaining citizen safety and safeguarding critical infrastructure demands a shift from passive monitoring to active, reliable coordination. The real-world impact of our research is validated by its massive deployment across diverse sectors. Beyond heavy industries like UMW Corporation, Malaysia Marine and Heavy Engineering (MMHE), and Tanjung Langsat Port (TLP), GuardExpert Pro has been trusted to secure public infrastructure. This includes higher education ecosystems like UTM, municipal town councils such as Majlis Bandaraya Kuantan, critical highway networks like the Besraya Highway, and high-stakes healthcare facilities like local hospitals. The necessity for robust, secure, and intuitive workforce tracking truly transcends geographical and sectoral borders.

Collaboration Opportunities including how to work with Dr Mohd. Adib bin Sarijari:

Great innovations thrive on diverse perspectives. Our system relies heavily on continuous multi-tenant dashboarding, facial recognition authentication, and data resilience. We deeply interested in connecting with fellow WTUN researchers, particularly those specializing in:

●     Advanced sensor technologies and Edge AI

●     Agentic AI, and Intelligence System for security and surveillances

●    Cross-cultural studies on security and surveillance technologies adoption within industrial workforces

If your institution is exploring human-in-the-loop systems or localized public safety frameworks, we would welcome the opportunity to exchange knowledge or co-develop international pilot projects.

Impact & Looking Ahead

Today, GuardExpert Pro is actively protecting lives, public assets, and property across corporate giants, ports, town councils, hospitals, and academic campuses. Looking forward over the next five years, the security sector will pivot from systems that merely record events to systems that intelligently comprehend situations.

By merging IoT with emerging Agentic AI, our goal is to build an ecosystem where systems autonomously recommend emergency responses, keeping human decision-makers efficiently in the loop. We are excited to step into this future, turning shared research into safer spaces for everyone.

“We are eager to connect and collaborate with researchers and public-safety specialists across the WTUN network who are passionate about scaling IoT and smart city security solutions globally.”

About

Dr. Mohd Adib bin Sarijari is a Senior Lecturer at Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) with 15 years of deep expertise in IoT technology & system integration, Artificial Intelligence, and telecommunication software. He focuses heavily on transforming industrial and civic challenges into smart digital applications. As a pioneer behind GuardExpert Pro—now trusted across major commercial enterprises ( such as UMW, MMHE, TLP) as well as public sectors, hospitals, and municipal town councils like Majlis Bandaraya Kuantan—his work bridges academic research and market-ready systems to build safer smart cities.

Keywords:Technology & Innovation | Internet of Things | Digital Applications

Call for content!

If you are interested in contributing to future editions of this blog, please contact wtun@bradford.ac.uk and a submission template will be shared with you.  

Atlantic Technological University

ATU hosts Majan University College academic through WTUN Exchange Programme

Atlantic Technological University (ATU) has welcomed Dr Senthil Ramadoss of Majan University College, Oman, for a five-day academic exchange supported by the World Technology Universities Network (WTUN).

Dr Ramadoss, Assistant Professor and Faculty Research Chair in Information Technology at Majan University College, visited ATU from 14 to 18 September 2026, with activities across the Letterkenny and Sligo campuses and a visit to World Skills Ireland in Dublin.

The exchange focused on sharing expertise in automation, Industry 4.0, sensors, IoT, data-driven technologies and applied research, alongside innovative approaches to teaching and laboratory-based learning. It also provided opportunities to identify areas for future joint research, academic exchanges, guest lectures and virtual seminars.

During his visit, Dr Ramadoss engaged with academic staff, researchers, PhD candidates and postdoctoral researchers at ATU. The programme included visits to the WiSAR Technology Gateway in Letterkenny and the Contract Research Centre in Sligo, as well as teaching, laboratory and research discussions across engineering, computing and emerging technologies.

The Exchange programme was managed locally by Dr Kevin Meehan, with the collaboration of Dr Emmet Kerr and Dr Jade Lyons of ATU Donegal, and Dr Amit Goswami at ATU Sligo.

The exchange is intended to strengthen links between ATU and Majan University College and create opportunities for longer-term collaboration in education, research and innovation. Experience gained through the visit will also support the further development of industry-relevant teaching and research at Majan University College.

The visit was brokered through the WTUN relationship between the two institutions. WTUN acknowledges the important contribution of Dr Susan Trevor-Roper, Associate Dean for Planning and Risk Management at Majan University College, and Dr Ciarán Ó hAnnracháin, Strategic Projects Manager at ATU, the respective WTUN Operational Board members, in developing the institutional connection and facilitating the exchange.

The initiative demonstrates how the WTUN network can translate international university partnerships into practical opportunities for academic mobility, knowledge exchange and sustained research and educational collaboration.

ATU launches new Research Commentary Series

“Research has a story to tell, but reaching audiences beyond academia often requires us to think differently about how that story is presented.”

The inaugural ATU Research Commentary Series provides researchers with an opportunity to communicate their research for audiences beyond academia, while also highlighting the breadth of research taking place across ATU.

Developed through RISE@ATU, the series explores research responding to local, regional and international priorities, with topics ranging from coastal sustainability, rural development, healthcare, and community wellbeing.

Read the story: www.atu.ie/news/why-research-matters-atu-launches-new-research-commentary-series

Download the Series

RISE@ATU is co-funded by the Government of Ireland and the European Union through the ERDF Northern & Western Regional Programme 2021-2027

Southern Alberta Institute of Technology

SAIT’s Applied Research and Innovation Services (ARIS): 2026 ARIS Impact  Report

Alberta’s polytechnics, along with industry, funders, innovators and community members, came together at the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT) on Sept. 17 for the 2026 Alberta Corridor Technical Symposium! Hosted in collaboration with Northern Alberta Institute of Technology and Red Deer Polytechnic, and support from Alberta Innovates, Prairie Polytechnic Innovation Network Accelerating Commercialization for Local Ecosystems (P2INACLE), Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of Alberta, and Calgary Innovation Coalition, the symposium showcased the remarkable research of Alberta’s leading polytechnics.

The symposium featured 24 research presentations from researchers and faculty, in collaboration with partners from across Canada, that address emerging industry needs through innovative solutions – from energy, environment, advanced manufacturing, health and digital technologies to other priority sectors. Additionally, over 15 students from five polytechnics brought their research to the event as part of the student research poster competition. Christian Sprinkhuysen, GIS Research Technologist and Drone Pilot at SAIT won the best student poster award for his research, Sludge Mapping Stormwater Ponds with UAVs.

At the event, SAIT’s Applied Research and Innovation Services (ARIS), launched the 2026 ARIS Impact Report, showcasing a year of innovation and celebrating the impact of applied research and innovation at SAIT. From being among Canada’s top four research colleges to building national and international collaborations to celebrating 20 years of applied research excellence at SAIT, the report explores how these achievements contribute to shaping a better future for Canada and the world. View the impact report here: 2026-digital-impact-report.pdf

Work with SAIT

As the future continues to evolve, so does ARIS. ARIS is committed to expanding the network, strengthening partnerships and fostering new collaborations to continue developing innovative solutions that matter.

Please reach out to the ARIS Interim Director, Jodi David, Jodi.David@sait.ca to learn more about ARIS and/or discuss any partnership opportunities

University of Bradford

The annual postgraduate research (PGR) conference returns to the University of Bradford – Register Now!

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

August 2026

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

Greetings from the World Technology Universities Network.

The deadline for registrations for World Technology Universities Network Congress 2026 has been extended to Thursday 3 September. If any members plan to attend and haven’t yet registered, please do so via the online registration. 

The Call for Speakers for this year’s programme were sent via the designated General and Operational Board members at your university. If you are interested in speaking at WTUC and need more information, please contact the relevant Operational Board Member at your university (contacts can be found via individual member pages here –wtu-n.net/members)

On behalf of our hosts, we look forward to welcoming you to Austria in November! (wtu-n.net/congress).

We are pleased to share the third contribution to the  WTUN Research Blog submitted by Professor Mohd  Hafiz Dzarfan Othman, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia. Read on for more about their research on Membrane Technology – From Ideas to Impact: Advancing Hollow Fibre Membrane Technology for a More Sustainable Future

Finally, news from our members including a welcome message from University of Bradford’s new Vice-Chancellor Professor Gillian Murray and an invite to postgraduate researchers from all disciplines, to submit an abstract for the PGR Conference 2026 and SAIT’s students shine on the international stage at the European Innovation Academy (EIA) in Porto, Portugal!

REMINDER: If you would like to share news, updates, events or milestones via this newsletter, then please contact wtun@bradford.ac.uk.

WTUC2026 – Register Now! (Deadline Extended)

‘Responsible Science: The Role of Higher Education for Shaping the Future’

This year’s theme brings together scholars, practitioners, and innovators to explore how universities can lead the transition toward a more sustainable and equitable world. Addressing the transformative power of renewable energies, artificial intelligence, and sustainability, the conference highlights higher education’s responsibility in driving research, fostering ethical innovation, and preparing future generations to navigate complex global challenges. Participants will engage in interdisciplinary dialogue, share forward-thinking practices, and co-create pathways for responsible scientific leadership that shapes a resilient future for all.

Congress sub-themes:

• Renewable Energy
• Artificial Intelligence
• Sustainability

View the programme here – www.wtu-n.net/2026-congress/programme

Register before 20 August  3 Sepetember- REGISTRATION

Meet us at EAIE 2026

Will your university be in Glasgow? Contact wtun@bradford.ac.uk to connect with Michael, Denise and fellow WTUN members!

We’re excited to invite all WTUN member colleagues to join us at EAIE 2026, where global minds in higher education come together to shape the future. This is a fantastic opportunity to strengthen our network, share innovative practices, and explore new avenues for collaboration.

Find us at the World Technology Universities Network Stand G58 in the exhibition hall.

From Ideas to Impact: Advancing Hollow Fibre Membrane Technology for a More Sustainable Future

Introducing Professor Mohd Hafiz Dzarfan  Othman, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia

Department / Research Area: Membrane Technology

Email Contact: dzarfan@utm.my

Every time I see clean water flowing from a tap, I am reminded that millions of people around the world  still do not have reliable access to this basic necessity. The same challenges extend beyond water to clean energy, environmental pollution and healthcare. These interconnected issues have shaped my research journey over the past  decade and continue to inspire my work today.

As a researcher at Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, I have always believed that research should do more than produce scientific publications. It should solve real problems and improve lives. That belief led my research group and me to focus on developing hollow fibre membrane technology, a versatile platform that can help address some of today’s biggest global challenges.

While the name may sound technical, the concept is surprisingly simple. Hollow fibre membranes, as shown in Figure 1, are tiny (in millimetre size), straw-like fibres with microscopic pores that selectively separate unwanted substances from water, gases, or even blood. Their unique structure allows them to perform highly efficient separations while requiring relatively little space and energy, making them an attractive solution for tackling some of today’s most pressing global challenges. This simple concept has enormous potential, from producing clean drinking water to supporting renewable energy and improving medical treatments.

Our journey has been filled with challenges and exciting discoveries. One of our biggest goals was to make this technology more affordable and sustainable. Traditional ceramic membranes are highly effective but expensive because they rely on costly raw materials. We began asking ourselves a different question: what if the answer could be found in materials that many people consider waste?

That question led us to develop ceramic membranes using locally available natural clay alongside agricultural by-products such as rice husk ash and palm oil waste. By transforming these materials into high-performance membranes, we were able to significantly reduce production costs while creating a more sustainable manufacturing process. This approach not only supports a circular economy but also creates opportunities for developing countries to produce advanced membrane technologies using their own local resources.

As our understanding of hollow fibre membranes grew, so did our ambition to rethink how they could be designed. Rather than relying on conventional single-layer membranes, my team pioneered the development of multilayer hollow fibre membranes that combine several functions, where each layer has a specific role, as depicted in Figure 2. In our membranes, one layer can provide structural strength, another enhances separation performance, while another introduces specialised functions such as self-cleaning or pollutant removal. Bringing these capabilities together allows us to create membranes that are not only more efficient but also more durable and versatile.

Building on this success, we also developed multi-channel hollow fibre membranes, which contain several tiny flow channels instead of just one as shown in Figure 3. Although this may seem like a small design change, it significantly increases the amount of water that can be treated while improving the membrane’s mechanical strength and long-term reliability. These innovations have enabled us to design membrane systems that are better suited for demanding industrial processes and large-scale water treatment, where efficiency and durability are equally important.

These advances have allowed us to expand the role of hollow fibre membranes far beyond conventional filtration. Today, our research spans water purification, industrial wastewater treatment, clean energy production, and biomedical technologies. We have developed multifunctional membranes capable of removing harmful pollutants from wastewater while reducing maintenance requirements, while our latest membrane systems are contributing to cleaner industrial processes and supporting the production of green hydrogen, one of the world’s most promising renewable energy sources. Seeing one technology evolve to address such diverse challenges has been one of the most rewarding aspects of my research career.

Scientific Achievements via Collaboration

None of these achievements would have been possible without collaboration.

Throughout this journey, we have worked closely with industry partners, government agencies, and fellow researchers to ensure that our innovations move beyond the laboratory and into practical use. Collaborations with organisations such as PETRONAS, the National Hydraulic Research Institute of Malaysia (NAHRIM), Tenaga Nasional Berhad Research (TNBR), and UMW have enabled us to translate research into pilot-scale systems for clean water production, industrial wastewater reclamation, and renewable energy applications and one example is shown in Figure 4.

Every collaboration brings fresh perspectives, complementary expertise, and a deeper understanding of local needs, strengthening both the research and its impact.

This is one of the reasons I value the World Technology Universities Network (WTUN). The network provides an opportunity to connect researchers from diverse disciplines, cultures, and countries who share a common goal of using research to address global challenges. I believe there are exciting opportunities for collaboration in areas such as sustainable water treatment, advanced membrane materials, circular economy approaches, clean hydrogen technologies, and biomedical innovations. By sharing knowledge and learning from one another, we can accelerate the development of practical solutions that benefit communities around the world.

Looking ahead, my ambition extends beyond developing better membrane technologies. I hope our work continues to contribute to a future where clean water, sustainable energy, and healthier communities are accessible to everyone.

Through collaboration within the WTUN community, I believe we can continue transforming scientific discoveries into practical solutions that create lasting global impact.

Collaboration Opportunities including how to work with Professor Othman:

Our work at AMTEC UTM thrives on interdisciplinary exchange. I’d be keen to connect with fellow WTUN members working on advanced materials, circular economy approaches, or green hydrogen technologies to see how we can co-create more resilient global solutions.

About

Ts. Dr. Mohd Hafiz Dzarfan Othman is a Professor in the Faculty of Chemical and Energy Engineering at Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) and currently serves as the Dean of School of Graduate Study at UTM. He earned his PhD in Chemical Engineering   from Imperial College London in 2011. His research focuses on the development of innovative membrane technologies for pollutant removal from water and wastewater, as well as for efficient energy generation. He has filed 50 intellectual property patents and has published more than 700 indexed articles, achieving an H-index of 80 with citation of around 24,000 according to Scopus. He is advancing Malaysia’s membrane initiatives through his research efforts and his spin-off company, Filt Us Sdn. Bhd.

Keywords: Membrane Technology | Technology & Innovation | Advanced Materials | Green Technologies

If you are interested in contributing to future editions of this blog, please contact Denise Whitehead wtun@bradford.ac.uk and a submission template will be shared with you.  

Southern Alberta Institute of Technology

SAIT’s Applied Research and Innovation Services (ARIS) is bringing Alberta’s research to a global conversation

ARIS recently participated in the 17th International Conference on the Durability of Building Materials and Components (DBMC 2026) and shared research findings with an international audience.

Drawing on research conducted at ARIS’ Green Building Technology Access Centre (GBTAC), Maeric Rico, Research Assistant at GBTAC, presented on integrating performance, durability and affordability in tiered energy codes for cold-climate housing. The presentation addressed critical topics while enabling knowledge exchange with researchers, industry professionals and practitioners from around the world. Supported by Alberta Real Estate Foundation (AREF) and Natural Resources Canada (NRCan), this research helps advance more sustainable, durable and affordable housing solutions.

SAIT is one of Canada’s top research colleges. Please reach out to the ARIS Interim Director, Jodi David, Jodi.David@sait.ca to learn more about ARIS and/or discuss any partnership opportunities.

Porto to Podium: SADT Students Shine on the International Stage

Four School for Advanced Digital Technology (SADT) students recently represented SAIT at the European Innovation Academy (EIA) in Porto, Portugal, joining innovators from around the world for an intensive three-week entrepreneurial experience.

Among the standout achievements, Nicholas Irvine was part of a top-three finishing team with Solvo, an educational technology application designed to help primary school teachers identify and support diverse learning needs while reducing administrative workload. By combining machine learning with teacher-driven decision making, the project demonstrated how technology can enhance learning while keeping people at the centre of the process.

SADT students Amal Musse, Kaley Wood, and Ayden Ryan-Ackerman also made significant contributions to multidisciplinary startup teams, helping develop innovative solutions that addressed real-world challenges. Their projects included Aligned, a clothing brand focused on size inclusivity, Banquet, an application supporting individuals with food sensitivities, and Railband, a luggage damage detection solution.

Beyond the projects themselves, the experience challenged students to collaborate across cultures, disciplines, and time zones while applying the technical and professional skills developed through their studies at SAIT. Working alongside peers, mentors, and industry professionals from around the globe, they strengthened their abilities in communication, problem solving, adaptability, and innovation.

University of Bradford

An introduction to the University of Bradford’s new Vice-Chancellor, Professor Gill Murray.

I’m so delighted to have joined the University of Bradford this summer. As a host and founding member, the WTUN is really important to the University of Bradford, and I’m looking forward to playing my part in helping the network to deliver its objectives.

I’ve only been part of the University of Bradford for a short time, but I can already see so many opportunities to explore for connecting and collaborating with other universities around the world. Here at Bradford, we’re celebrating our 60th anniversary in October, so there’s a lot going on and a lot to be proud of.

My academic life began at another member institution, the University of York, where I studied Chemistry, Industrial Technology and Economics. I then went on to study a work-based PhD in Chemical Engineering at the former University of Manchester Institute of Science and Technology, with EA Technology. Right from the start of my career, I’ve seen how technology universities’ research can inform challenges faced by society, and how researchers’ ideas can change lives and shape the world around us.

Before the University of Bradford, I was Deputy Principle at Heriot-Watt University where I led enterprise and business engagement strategy. At the University of Liverpool, I co-founded and directed the Virtual Engineering Centre, focusing on collaborative approaches to innovation, digital technologies and economic growth.

Through these positions, I have built my career at the intersection of higher education, industry and economic development. With many years of experience leading large-scale partnership programmes between universities, industry and government, I am and always will be excited about the profound contribution universities can make in their local area, and all over the world. As I wrote last month in a blog post for the Higher Education Policy Institute, it is the power of universities to connect people that truly inspires me, and that’s why I’m so proud of the things this Network is doing.

It’s remarkable that the World University Technologies Network launched almost a decade ago and has achieved so much in that time. With members coming from across the globe, representing different perspectives, this network is a powerful vehicle for solving global challenges. I’m really looking forward to being part of it and hope to have the opportunity to meet other members soon.

Professor Gillian Murray, Vice-Chancellor, The University of Bradford

Call for Abstracts: PGR Conference 2026

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

July 2026

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

Members are reminded that registration for the World Technology Universities Network Congress 2026 is open (deadline Thursday 20 August). Invitations were sent via the designated General and Operational Board members at your university. On behalf of our hosts, we look forward to welcoming you to Austria in November! (www.wtu-n.net/congress).

Below you will also find the second publication of the WTUN Research Blog submitted by Dr Nur Faizal bin Kasri, Senior Lecturer, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia. Read on for more about his team’s work on their project titled – Pasar Malam Hijau 2.0 (Green Night Market 2.0).

Finally, news from our members including semester abroad and PhD scholarship opportunities from Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology, SAIT’s participation in the recent Canada-Baltics Education in Defence Partnership Mission and the university welcomes their new Vice-Chancellor and student success in Space AI at the University of Bradford!

REMINDER: If you would like to share news, updates, events or milestones via this newsletter, then please contact wtun@bradford.ac.uk.

WTUC2026 – Register Now!

‘Responsible Science: The Role of Higher Education for Shaping the Future’

This year’s theme brings together scholars, practitioners, and innovators to explore how universities can lead the transition toward a more sustainable and equitable world. Addressing the transformative power of renewable energies, artificial intelligence, and sustainability, the conference highlights higher education’s responsibility in driving research, fostering ethical innovation, and preparing future generations to navigate complex global challenges. Participants will engage in interdisciplinary dialogue, share forward-thinking practices, and co-create pathways for responsible scientific leadership that shapes a resilient future for all.

Congress sub-themes:

• Renewable Energy
• Artificial Intelligence
• Sustainability

View the programme here – www.wtu-n.net/2026-congress/programme

Register before 20 August – REGISTRATION

Meet us at EAIE 2026

Will your university be in Glasgow? Contact wtun@bradford.ac.uk to connect with Michael, Denise and fellow WTUN members!

We’re excited to invite all WTUN member colleagues to join us at EAIE 2026, where global minds in higher education come together to shape the future. This is a fantastic opportunity to strengthen our network, share innovative practices, and explore new avenues for collaboration.

Find us at the World Technology Universities Network Stand G58 in the exhibition hall.

SILENCING THE SMOKE: SHIFTING MALAYSIA’S ICONIC NIGHT MARKETS TO SMART, BATTERY POWER 

Introducing Dr. Nur Faizal bin Kasri, Senior Lecturer, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia

Department / Research Area: Faculty of Electrical  Engineering / Clean Energy Technology & Power Electronics

Email Contact: nurfaizal@utm.my

If you ever visit Malaysia, one of the first things you must experience is a pasar malam—our traditional open-air night markets. They are a beautiful sensory explosion: the sizzle of street food, the bright lights, and the chatter of communities coming together. But if you stand there for a few minutes, another less pleasant reality hits you. The air quickly fills with choking black smoke, and a deafening roar echoes down the street.

This pollution comes from heavy reliance on petrol-powered generators that vendors use just to keep their lightbulbs on. As an electrical engineer, I looked at this and thought: we can do so much better. These small-scale traders are the economic backbone of our neighbourhoods, yet they are breathing in toxic carbon monoxide every single week while spending their hard-earned profits on expensive, fluctuating fuel. This inspired my team and me at Universiti Teknologi Malaysia to step out of the lab and take action.

The Research Journey

Our project, Pasar Malam Hijau 2.0 (Green Night Market 2.0), bridges lab-tested power systems with everyday community needs. In practice, my research involves swapping out loud, dirty petrol engines for portable, rechargeable battery packs running on advanced power inverters. To turn this into a truly modern solution, we integrated smart Internet of Things (IoT) technology. We developed custom mobile applications for Android and iOS alongside a centralized web dashboard, allowing vendors to track their real-time power levels right from their phones.

Taking this technology to the streets with a dedicated focus at Dataran Niaga Taman Pulai Indah has been an incredible journey. By organizing live demonstrations and technical masterclasses, we didn’t just hand over equipment—we built trust. We even partnered with local schools to host workshops, teaching over 50 young students how power inverters are built and operated. The immense real-world impact of this journey quickly caught national attention, leading our initiative to be showcased on major broadcasting platforms, including a live feature on Astro AWANI’s AWANI Pagi, national coverage by RTM, and regional highlights via Media Digital Johor.

While our work is rooted locally in Johor, Malaysia, the core issue is global. Street food culture and informal open-air marketplaces are vital economic lifelines for millions of people across developing nations. Yet, their heavy reliance on localized fossil fuels presents a massive, hidden barrier to urban health initiatives and global climate goals.

By cleaning up the energy footprint of these marketplaces, our project directly targets international sustainability, climate mitigation, and clean energy goals. We are creating a practical blueprint for low-carbon urban living that can easily be adapted by cities anywhere in the world.

The real-world impact of this initiative is incredibly clear. In the short term, we are giving night market traders immediate financial relief by eliminating their fuel costs, while giving visitors a peaceful, smoke-free shopping environment. Our long-term ambition is to integrate flexible solar options directly into the mobile inverter setups, creating a fully self-sustaining, zero-emission ecosystem. We want to prove that green technology isn’t just for luxury developments or massive industrial complexes—it belongs on our local streets, improving everyday lives and protecting our planet one night market stall at a time.

Collaboration Opportunities including how to work with Dr Kasri:

We know that grand environmental challenges cannot be solved in isolation. For this deployment, we have built amazing local networks involving municipal councils, community safety committees, and a passionate team of fifty “Southern Volunteers” who help us conduct field surveys on power loads. To maximize the technical depth of this project, we have also expanded our research across institutional boundaries, collaborating closely with experts like Ts. Dr. Zatul Iffah Abd Latiff from Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) and Dr. Muhammad Hafiz Jahare from the International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM). Financially, the project is highly backed—leveraging our local council grant with an additional RM30,000.00 from the Prototype Development Fund (PDF) 2025 to maximize our impact.

Moving forward, I am eager to expand this network internationally. I would love to connect with researchers across the World Technology Universities Network (WTUN) who specialize in urban renewable energy grid integration, smart city data analytics, or community-led sustainability projects. Whether you want to study the socio-economic impacts of green technologies or replicate this green marketplace model in your own country, our team is completely open to collaboration, data sharing, and joint research initiatives.

About

Dr. Nur Faizal bin Kasri is a Senior Lecturer within the Faculty of Electrical Engineering at Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM). Specializing in clean energy engineering and power electronics, his research focuses on translating laboratory innovations into scalable, high-impact green technologies that directly benefit grassroots communities, support micro-entrepreneurs, and advance real-world low-carbon urban development.

I am highly keen to connect and collaborate with researchers and institutions across the WTUN working on smart cities, data analytics for cross-university IoT energy systems, or urban low-carbon strategies.

Keywords:

Sustainability & Climate Action | Technology & Innovation | Societal Challenges & Inclusion

If you are interested in contributing to future editions of this blog, please contact Denise Whitehead wtun@bradford.ac.uk and a submission template will be shared with you.  

Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology

KIIT expands its Global Faculty Programme, KIIT International Semester and PhD Opportunities

KIIT is expanding its Global Faculty Programme and welcomes expressions of interest from distinguished academics interested in teaching, collaborative research, joint supervision of doctoral students, curriculum development, and other forms of academic engagement. We would be delighted to explore opportunities for collaboration with faculty from your university.

KIIT is a multidisciplinary university with a strong emphasis on research, innovation, internationalisation, and industry engagement. We believe these initiatives offer an excellent platform to strengthen academic partnerships within the WTUN community.

If these opportunities align with your institution’s interests, I would be pleased to share additional information, application details, or arrange a discussion with the relevant colleagues at KIIT.

Contact: Tanya Sharma, WTUN Operational Board member for KIIT and Director, Partnerships and Research, International Relations. tanya.sharma@kiit.ac.in 

Introducing KIIT International Semester Scholarship Programme and KUISP Scholarship 2026

KIIT is currently inviting applications from outstanding candidates across a wide range of disciplines for its doctoral programmes. We would be grateful if you could share this opportunity with eligible students and recent graduates who may be interested in pursuing high-quality research in India.

Southern Alberta Institute of Technology

Applied Research and Innovation Services (ARIS)

SAIT’s Applied Research and Innovation Services (ARIS) recently participated in the Canada-Baltics Education in Defence Partnership Mission led by the Canadian Bureau for International Education (CBIE) in collaboration with the Trade Commissioner Service.

The mission brought together Canadian post-secondary institutions and counterparts across Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania to explore opportunities for collaboration in defence-related research, training and dual-use technologies, including artificial intelligence, materials, robotics, aerospace and unmanned systems.

As one of the Canadian delegates, ARIS connected with government officials, leading institutions and organizations across the Baltic region to explore opportunities for knowledge mobilization and collaboration. The mission helped recognize shared challenges and the need for international collaboration to address those challenges – further strengthening Canada-Europe partnerships.

Please reach out to the ARIS Interim Director and Grants Manager, Jodi David, Jodi.David@sait.ca to learn more about ARIS and/or discuss any partnership opportunities.

SAIT Colleague  Recognised as a CIPS Fellow

SAIT is pleased to recognize our esteemed colleague, Blake Kanewischer, Academic Chair in Academic Services, on being inducted as a Fellow of the Canadian Information Processing Society (CIPS),

The prestigious Fellow designation (FCIPS) recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to the advancement of the profession, the ICT industry, or the adoption and application of information and communication technologies. Fellows are selected for their leadership, impact, and commitment to strengthening the profession and are called upon to serve as advisors and ambassadors for CIPS within their spheres of influence.

This recognition reflects Blake’s longstanding dedication to innovation, technology-enabled learning, and professional leadership. Through his contributions to education and his commitment to advancing the effective use of technology, Blake has demonstrated the qualities that the Fellow designation is intended to celebrate.

As a newly appointed CIPS Fellow, Blake joins a distinguished group of professionals who help shape the future of the ICT profession in Canada. The SAIT community congratulates Blake on this remarkable achievement and thanks him for the expertise, leadership, and vision he brings to our institution and the broader professional community.”

Read  more about CIPS – Canada’s Association of Information Technology Professionals

Submission from Enda Morley (Academic Services)

University of Bradford

The University of Bradford welcome new Vice Chancellor Professor Gillian Murray.

Professor Murray, who took up her new role on Monday, July 13 – the start of the University’s summer graduation week – has a strong track record in leading large-scale partnership programmes between universities, industry and government.

She is a former member of Scottish Enterprise, Scotland’s national economic development agency, and was previously involved in economic regeneration across the Liverpool City Region and the Northern Powerhouse.  

She joins Bradford in its 60th anniversary year from Heriot-Watt University, where, as Deputy Principal, she led enterprise and business engagement strategy and helped double research and innovation income. She is the University’s 9th permanent Vice-Chancellor, taking over from Professor Nick Braisby, who served as Interim Vice-Chancellor following the retirement of Professor Shirley Congdon in December, having been in the role since 2019.

The WTUN welcomes Professor Murray to the University of Bradford and looks forward to working with her.

View the full story – https://www.bradford.ac.uk/news/archive/2026/vice-chancellor-signals-new-chapter-for-university-of-bradford-.php

Space AI students win national satellite design awards

Congratulations to students from our Bradford-Renduchintala Centre for Space AI who have won two awards at the UK Students for the Exploration and Development of Space (UKSEDS) Satellite Design Competition.

Kelvin Shek, Wilson Lui, Jack Sutton and Thong Tran received the Best Satellite and Best Outreach awards for their innovative 3U CubeSat design at the competition finals, hosted by Airbus Defence and Space in Stevenage.

Competing as Team BEARS, the students impressed judges with a satellite project that combined advanced technologies including cloud sensing for environmental mapping, Earth observation imaging, satellite attitude control and onboard data handling systems.

The Best Satellite award recognised the team’s successful achievement of their mission objectives, while the Best Outreach award celebrated the group’s effective public engagement programme linked to the project. The national finals brought together teams from five universities, giving students the chance to present their designs and engage with experts from across the UK space sector.

The UKSEDS competition challenges students to develop nanosatellite and CubeSat concepts for practical space applications while following the same systems engineering approaches used by professional aerospace organisations. Our award-winning project was supported by academic mentors from the Bradford-Renduchintala Centre for Space AI, including Dr Muhammad Ali, Dr Viktor Doychinov, Dr Vuong Mai, Professor Raed A. Abd-Alhameed and Professor Rami Qahwaji.

Professor Rami Qahwaji, Director of the Bradford-Renduchintala Centre for Space AI, said: “The UKSEDS Satellite Design Competition gives our students a real-world platform to innovate using professional aerospace standards.”

“The Bradford team’s 3U CubeSat project demonstrated exceptional technical skills, creativity and teamwork. These awards are a testament to the talent of our students, the quality of our teaching and research, and the supportive environment we create to help them succeed.”

Through the competition, students gained hands-on experience in satellite engineering, systems integration, testing, project management and multidisciplinary teamwork, helping to prepare them for careers in the growing space industry.

The technologies developed as part of the project have potential applications in Earth observation, environmental monitoring, disaster management, autonomous satellite operations and future small satellite missions.

The project will also support future STEM outreach activities through the Bradford-Renduchintala Centre for Space AI, helping to inspire the next generation of engineers and scientists while raising awareness of how space technology can help address global challenges.

Read more about the Bradford-Renduchintala Centre for Space AI

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

June 2026

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

Greetings from another month of record breaking-ly high temperatures here in the UK.  Members are reminded that registration for the World Technology Universities Network Congress 2026 is open (deadline Thursday 20 August). Invitations were sent via the designated General and Operational Board members. On behalf of our hosts, we look forward to welcoming you to Austria in November! (www.wtu-n.net/congress).

New! Introducing the WTUN Research Blog: We are pleased to announce the first in what we hope will become a permanent feature of this newsletter with an article from Dr Colins Imoh, Assistant Professor, Peace Studies and International Development, University of Bradford. Read on for more about his collaboration with members Atlantic Technological University.

REMINDER: If you would like to share news, updates, events or milestones via this newsletter, then please contact wtun@bradford.ac.uk.

WTUC2026 – Registration Open

‘Responsible Science: The Role of Higher Education for Shaping the Future’

This year’s theme brings together scholars, practitioners, and innovators to explore how universities can lead the transition toward a more sustainable and equitable world. Addressing the transformative power of renewable energies, artificial intelligence, and sustainability, the conference highlights higher education’s responsibility in driving research, fostering ethical innovation, and preparing future generations to navigate complex global challenges. Participants will engage in interdisciplinary dialogue, share forward-thinking practices, and co-create pathways for responsible scientific leadership that shapes a resilient future for all.

Congress sub-themes:

• Renewable Energy
• Artificial Intelligence
• Sustainability

View the programme here – www.wtu-n.net/2026-congress/programme

Register before 20 August – REGISTRATION

Meet us at EAIE 2026

The WTUN is going to Glasgow!

We’re excited to invite all WTUN member colleagues to join us at EAIE 2026, where global minds in higher education come together to shape the future. This is a fantastic opportunity to strengthen our network, share innovative practices, and explore new avenues for collaboration.

Together, WTUN Chair, Professor Michael Affenzeller and WTUN Manager, Denise Whitehead will attend EAIE 2026.

Find us at the World Technology Universities Network Stand G58 in the exhibition hall.

Will your university be in Glasgow? Contact wtun@bradford.ac.uk to connect with Michael, Denise and fellow WTUN members!

Echoes of the Past, Voices of the Future: How Young  People Perceive Peace in Ireland

Introducing Dr Colins Imoh, Assistant Professor in Peace Studies and International Development, University of Bradford, UK

Department / Research Area:  Peace Studies and International Development (PSID)

Email Contact: c.imoh@bradford.ac.uk

In 2024, a research visit brought me to Atlantic Technological University (ATU) in Donegal, Ireland, funded by the World Technology Universities Network (WTUN). It was there, alongside my colleagues Dr Sharon McLaughlin and Dr Cormac Conaghan, that a vital question sparked our curiosity: how does a generation born entirely into peace view a history they never personally witnessed?

My wider research focuses on the deeply intertwined relationships between justice, peacebuilding, democracy, diversity, and inclusion. At its core, I am driven by a desire to understand how societies heal and move forward. When we look at Ireland and Northern Ireland, we look at a region shaped by a monumental milestone. Signed over 26 years ago on April 10, 1998, the landmark Good Friday Agreement (GFA) brought an end to three decades of violent conflict known as the Troubles. It was a masterclass in political compromise and power-sharing.

But fast forward to today, and the landscape looks entirely different.  The vast majority of current university students were born post-1998. They have  no direct memories of the conflict. This realised truth inspired our collaborative project: investigating the current awareness, understanding, and perceptions of the GFA among university students across Ireland and Northern Ireland.

In practice, our research explores the subtle, social undercurrents of a post-conflict society. Peace is more than just the absence of active violence or a formal structure signed on paper; it must be internalised to be sustainable. Through a 15-minute online survey and targeted focus group discussions, we are asking young people how they form their opinions, where they gather historical information, and how the lingering legacy of the Troubles might still influence their modern interpersonal relationships.

This is fundamentally a study of intergenerational peacebuilding. By examining how these post-agreement cohorts navigate their realities, we gain invaluable data to design better educational and civic programmes. The GFA was an agreement to manage political and societal diversity peacefully. By looking at the sociological and educational mechanisms that either sustain or undermine this harmony over time, we help policymakers move beyond static treaties and look toward deep, cultural healing.

This project is a proud testament to the power of global network collaboration. What began as a dialogue between the University of Bradford and ATU has evolved into a cross-border exploration of institutional resilience and societal inclusion. However, to truly capture the full picture, we need to expand our reach.

We are currently looking to connect with academics, student unions, and civil society contacts across both Ireland and Northern Ireland who can help us recruit young participants for our surveys and focus groups. Your local expertise and networks would be invaluable to the success of this study. Looking even further ahead, the questions we are asking here are not unique to Ireland. From the Balkans to parts of the African continent, understanding how the next generation inherits peace is a universal, global challenge.

Ultimately, we hope our findings will shape future youth policies and ensure that the peace achieved a quarter-century ago remains resilient, participatory, and deeply rooted in the generations to come.

How to work with Dr Imoh:

I am eager to connect with researchers, student leaders, and institutional partners across the WTUN who can assist in sharing our participant survey or who are working on intergenerational peace studies. c.imoh@bradford.ac.uk

About:

Dr Colins Imoh is an Assistant Professor in Peace Studies and International Development at the University of Bradford, UK. His research examines the vital intersections of justice, peacebuilding, diversity, and democratic literacy. Driven by the conviction that sustainable peace demands more than the mere absence of violence, his work addresses how to build robust democracies within deeply unequal societies. As an active global collaborator, Dr Imoh regularly contributes to international peace education frameworks, developing practical, inclusive strategies for community integration and societal conflict resolution worldwide.

If you are interested in contributing to future editions of this blog, please contact Denise Whitehead wtun@bradford.ac.uk and a submission template will be shared with you.  

Atlantic Technological University

ATU students win national and international awards for renewable energy project

Photo caption: (L-R) Robert Craig, Lecturer in Engineering, ATU; Dr Xavier Velay, Head of Department of Electronic, Software and Adv. Manufacturing Engineering, ATU; Bryan McAleenan, Prize Winner; Ben Clarke, Prize Winner; Dr Orla Flynn, President ATU; Dr Ciarán Ó hAnnracháin, ATU’s WTUN Board Member.

President Dr Orla Flynn, together with colleagues from WTUN Members Atlantic Technological University gathered to recognise their students Ben Clarke and Bryan McAleenan’s first prize win in this year’s WTUN Student Competition with their ‘Nepal Hydroelectric Turbine‘ project.

Of their win, Dr Ciarán Ó hAnnracháin, ATU’s WTUN Board Member said:

As ATU’s representative on the WTUN Operational Board, I am delighted that Ben and Bryan chose to enter this global competition, and to come away with the win. The WTUN membership spans the globe, and the student competition is one of our flagship annual activities, in which ATU has an excellent track record. The team should be proud that their project was judged favourably against entrants from the Americas, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.

Read the full story here- www.atu.ie/news/atu-students-win-national-and-international-awards-for-renewable-energy-project

View the 3 winning entries here

University of Applied Sciences

Upper Austria

Expanded Summer School in September 2026 and Tailored AI Solutions for Upper Austrian Industry

Expanded Summer School in September 2026

The Expanded Summer School offers a unique, intensive learning experience from September 8 to 13, 2026 at our School of Informatics, Communications and Media in Hagenberg and Linz. The program takes place in conjunction with the renowned Expanded Conference (https://expanded-conf.org/) as part of the internationally recognized Ars Electronica Festival in Austria and offers a special platform for emerging female scientists and practitioners. The summer school begins with a workshop in Hagenberg before moving to Linz for the activities of the Expanded Conference and the Ars Electronica Festival. This structure is intended to enable both targeted skills development and a broad insight into the latest developments in digital and interactive art.

The central theme of the Expanded Summer School 2026 is ‘Play to Research.’ 

Application is open until July 10, 2026. More information at https://fh-ooe.at/en/campus-hagenberg/events/summer-school-2026

Tailored AI Solutions for Upper Austrian Industry

Upper Austria is on its way to becoming a hub for artificial intelligence (AI). Time and again, research achievements and companies from the region attract attention far beyond its borders, placing the local AI scene in the international spotlight. FH-Prof. PD DI Dr. Michael Affenzeller, Academic Director and one of the leading figures in AI research at FH Upper Austria, emphasizes the importance of tailored approaches: “Our competitive advantage for businesses lies in solutions that are precisely tailored to their needs—not in off-the-shelf AI.”

Around 200 representatives from business and academia came together at FH Upper Austria’s major AI event at the Upper Austrian Chamber of Commerce in Linz to initiate concrete collaborations. Currently, more than 120 research projects at FH Upper Austria have a focus on AI. The university concentrates its AI research on areas that provide particular momentum for Upper Austria as a business location—namely industry, production and logistics, life sciences, and process optimization in the economy.

More information at https://fh-ooe.at/en/news/fh-oberoesterreich-setzt-auf-individuelle-loesungen-fuer-oberoesterreichs-wirtschaft.

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