On 15 April, the University of Nottingham Ningbo China (UNNC) transformed its Innovation and Entreprise Building into a vibrant hub of creativity and technology. At the Software Engineering Group Project (GRP) Open Day, all third-year Computer Science students presented a year’s worth of work, unveiling solutions designed for real-world impact.
From virtual reality tools supporting patients before surgery to drone route planning systems and an AI chatbot guiding new students through campus life, the showcase demonstrated how innovation at UNNC goes far beyond the classroom.
Competing for opportunity: Learning through challenge
At the heart of the GRP module is a distinctive, industry-driven approach. About 150 students are assigned to teams and must compete to secure projects through a professional-style bidding process.
Professor Dave Towey, Head of the School of Computer Science, and GRP module convenor, said: “We are committed to creating meaningful, real-world opportunities for our students, with a strong emphasis on industry engagement and collaboration.”
Drawing on projects from leading academic research and external industry partners, students tackle some of today’s most pressing and forward-looking challenges.
Real clients, real pressure, real growth
Once projects are secured, students step into the role of professionals, working with real clients—many without technical backgrounds—to define problems, design solutions and deliver results.
“Students must demonstrate not only technical excellence, but also why they are the best team for the project—just as they would in a real professional environment,” Professor Towey added.
One standout project, “Enhancing Augmented Reality-Based Competitive Sports Experience and Teaching How”, saw a team develop an augmented reality system that enhances live sports experiences by overlaying digital effects directly onto the physical arena. Working to tight deadlines and evolving client expectations, students refined both their technical expertise and their ability to adapt.
Preparing future talent for a changing world
By immersing students in the full lifecycle of a project, the GRP module bridges the gap between academic study and professional practice. It equips students with technical knowledge alongside essential skills such as teamwork, communication and problem-solving in uncertain environments.
Graduates continue to benefit long after the course ends—whether publishing research, advancing into cutting-edge fields such as AI and virtual reality, or applying their experience in industry.
As Professor Towey summarised: “Our goal is to replicate authentic industry conditions, enabling students to graduate with the skills, confidence and professional mindset needed to succeed in a rapidly evolving world.”
Published on 22 April 2026