On 10 November, the Loctek Innovation and Entrepreneurship Fund Programme was officially launched. The programme has been supported through a 3 million RMB donation made by Loctek Ergonomic Technology Corp. (Loctek) to the University of Nottingham Ningbo China (UNNC). The aim is to encourage UNNC students to bolster their employability through practical experience, foster innovative thinking and address real-world industry challenges.
The inception of the Loctek Innovation and Entrepreneurship Fund Programme represents a pioneering initiative by UNNC to enhance student employability while fostering university-enterprise collaboration. Established in 2002 and headquartered in Ningbo, Loctek is a leading manufacturer of electric linear actuators, lifting columns and control systems, providing innovative product solutions for a wide array of applications.
The programme is designed around the development of Loctek in the form of projects. Each faculty at UNNC has established a project group which, under the guidance of a supervising teacher, collaborates with Loctek to determine a research direction. After researching the company and making laboratory visits, the groups complete their research reports and present their findings. The projects will be awarded first, second and third prizes, with each winning group receiving a cash prize ranging from 15,000 to 40,000 yuan.
At the launch ceremony, Professor Philip Seltsikas, Vice Provost for Education and Student Experience of UNNC delivered a welcome speech, extending his greetings to the Loctek representatives as well as to the teachers and students in attendance. He sincerely thanked Loctek for their generous donation and emphasised the importance of university-enterprise collaboration in cultivating practical and innovative abilities in students to promote the development of education.
Professor Kok Wei Khong, Dean of Nottingham University Business School China (NUBS China) pointed out in his speech that student participation in the Loctek Innovation and Entrepreneurship Fund Programme not only helps deepen their understanding of theoretical knowledge, but also enhances their horizontal skills, such as their capabilities in communication, teamwork and interdisciplinary integration. He added that the advancement of this project is a manifestation of the close connection between NUBS China and industry.
Mr Jianhui Mao, Vice President of Loctek Ergonomic Technology Corp., also gave a speech. He mentioned that in these times, the demand for talent has undergone significant changes. The establishment of this fund programme guides students to enhance their employability and innovation skills through research, project work and internships. It actively integrates them into the market with an open vision, facilitating a smooth transition to the workplace. Meanwhile, companies can identify and secure outstanding talents through this process, enabling a reciprocal relationship between talent and enterprises which fosters mutual benefits for both universities and enterprises.
Ms Min Ye, the HR Director of Loctek, provided an in-depth introduction to the company. Dr Yi Wang, the Director of Educational Partnerships at NUBS China, outlined the structure and highlighted key milestones of the programme.
It is worth mentioning that this programme has also received strong support from Microsoft. Jacky Wu, Education Technical Manager of Microsoft conducted an in-depth Azure training course for teachers and students. This targeted and comprehensive training greatly enhanced the students' understanding and application of cloud computing technology, directly contributing to their ability to analyse market data and effectively complete the Loctek programme. Besides, it also provides strong technical support for the university to cultivate high-quality talents in the digital age.