Ulster University has brought together students, faculty, industry experts, and members of the local community to mark the milestone of 40 years of computing at its Derry~Londonderry campus.
In an anniversary celebration on 20 November, the School of Computing brought together stakeholders to explore current innovations and imagine what the future may hold for computing and wider society.
The day featured a Pitch and Judge competition for secondary school students across the North West who were challenged to ‘Envisage 2064’ and imagine what computing may look like, and how it will change society, 40 years from now.
With participation from over 60 students, the young people explored future transformative changes in technology, society, and sustainability through computing, before presenting for a panel of judges.
After four decades innovating from the heart of Derry~Londonderry, the School of Computing also opened the doors to the Intelligent Systems Research Centre for public tours that provided a 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.
The event concluded with a public lecture by Professor Michaela Black, Professor of Artificial Intelligence at Ulster University, on ‘Demystifying the Hype of AI’.
Professor Black shared insights on AI's trajectory, its societal impact and what the future holds in this exciting field, unpacking 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.
Professor Michaela Black, Professor of Artificial Intelligence at Ulster University, said:
“I was delighted to meet up and share some insights of AI with colleagues and visitors celebrating this fantastic event. The excellent attendance highlights the great public interest in AI and the eagerness of everyone to share and discuss how citizens can benefit from responsible AI, delivering a collective good for all of society and the environment.”
Ulster University is working to foster greater AI adoption in business through the Artificial Intelligence Collaboration Centre (AICC), a project based across Belfast and Derry~Londonderry and delivered in partnership with Queen’s University Belfast.
Launched as part of a £16.3 million investment by Invest Northern Ireland and the Department for the Economy in March 2024, the AICC is dedicated to advancing AI awareness and adoption among businesses in Northern Ireland, with a focus on ethical and responsible innovation.
Professor Colin Turner, Pro Vice Chancellor & Executive Dean of the 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 look forward to an exciting future ahead for Computing at the University.”