Ulster University prepares to mark a monumental milestone - 40 years of computing on its Derry~Londonderry campus.
This anniversary celebration takes place on Wednesday 20 November, and promises to bring together students, faculty, industry experts, and members of the local community to honour the past, explore current innovations, and imagine what the future may hold for computing and wider society.
School Competition – Envisage 2064
The day will begin with an energising and forward-looking event: ‘Envisage 2064’, a Pitch and Judge competition aimed at young minds from secondary schools across the North West.
This competition, with over a month to prepare, challenges students to envision ‘Computing 40 Years from Now’. Students have been invited to imagine transformative changes in technology, society, and sustainability through computing, and will present their ideas before a panel of judges. They can compete for awards in three categories:
- Technological Innovations: Predicting future computing technologies
- Societal Impact: Exploring the influence of computing on ethics and the human experience
- Environmental and Sustainability: How computing can contribute to sustainability in the next 40 years.
Entries will be judged by academic and industry panel experts.
Professor Jim Harkin, Head of the School of Computing, Engineering and Intelligent Systems, explains:
“The Envisage 2064 school competition not only celebrates the achievements over the past 40 years but it also cultivates the next generation of visionaries who will lead the future of computing.
“School pupils from across the region city will have the opportunity to present their ideas in various forms, to showcase their ingenuity and critical thinking, and we look forward to seeing their predictions of future advancements in computing.”
Public Lecture by Professor Michaela Black
On the evening of 20 November, Professor Michaela Black, Professor of Artificial Intelligence at Ulster University will present a public lecture titled ‘Demystifying the Hype of AI’, sharing insights on AI's trajectory, its societal impact and what the future holds in this exciting field.
Professor Black will unpack the often-misunderstood aspects of artificial intelligence, examining its societal impact, ethical implications, and the potential challenges and breakthroughs we may see in the years to come.
This Lecture is a unique chance for community members, students, and professionals to deepen their understanding of AI and discuss its place in our increasingly digital world.
The Lecture will be held in MU011, with arrival and registration at 6pm. The Public Lecture will commence at 6:30pm, followed by an opportunity to connect over a drinks reception.
Tours of the Intelligent Systems Research Centre
Complementing these events, the University's Intelligent Systems Research Centre will open its doors for public tours from 4:30pm.
Visitors will get an inside look at pioneering research in AI, robotics, brain imaging, and mixed reality.
These guided tours provide a hands-on glimpse into Ulster University's ongoing projects and future aspirations, underscoring the University’s commitment to advancing technological innovation and contributing to breakthroughs that impact industries, healthcare, and daily life.
Come along and enjoy a free tour any time from 4:30pm.
Register your attendance
To attend Professor Michaela Black’s Lecture on Wednesday 20 November at 6pm, please register using this link (register by 13 November 2024).
Professor Colin Turner, Pro Vice Chancellor & Executive Dean of Faculty of Computing, Engineering & the Built Environment, comments:
“This 40th anniversary celebration of Computing in Derry~Londonderry reflects Ulster University’s dedication to community engagement, academic excellence, and vision for the future. With events designed for schoolchildren, students, colleagues, industry professionals, and the broader public, the celebration highlights our inclusive commitment to computing and innovation.
“We invite everyone to join us in celebrating four decades of success and progress, and we look forward to an exciting future ahead for Computing at the University.”
Everyone is invited to join us in marking 40 years of computing excellence and innovation.
Find out more
If you have any questions about the 40th anniversary celebrations, contact Elaine Duffy by email to e.duffy@ulster.ac.uk