University Centre Weston proudly marked its annual Engineering Week with an immersive, industry-focused learning experience centred on the Engineering for People Design Challenge 2025-26. Delivered in partnership with Engineers Without Borders UK and CIVIC SQUARE, this year’s challenge invited students to develop innovative solutions to real-world issues faced by the community of Ladywood, Birmingham.
The initiative encourages future engineers to apply their technical skills to societal challenges, grounded in the principles of sustainable development, social purpose, and community impact.
Throughout the week, UCW engineering students engaged in project-based learning, working from a design brief set by Engineers Without Borders UK. Their task: to create sustainable, community-centred solutions addressing environmental, social, and economic needs within Ladywood.
This challenge formed a core part of students’ academic assessment, with all project work contributing to degree module evaluations. Tutorials and guided feedback sessions allowed teams to refine their ideas with support from academic staff while developing essential professional skills such as collaboration, communication, and problem-solving.
Engineering Week concluded with a vibrant, walk-around style showcase, where student teams presented their concepts to peers, tutors, and visiting employers. Industry representatives provided valuable feedback on the students’ work, offering insights into real-world engineering practice and strengthening the connection between education and industry.
Engineering Week is a fantastic opportunity for our students to engage with meaningful, community-focused challenges while developing the professional skills they’ll rely on throughout their careers. Partnering with Engineers Without Borders UK and CIVIC SQUARE reinforces UCW’s commitment to nurturing engineers who think critically, act responsibly, and innovate for social good.
