Bunmi Onanuga and Laura Phillips will showcase their pioneering computer game at the International STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) Students’ Forum which takes place in Hong Kong on 16/17 June.
Laura and Bunmi are both studying HND Mechanical Engineering at City of Glasgow College having gained their HNC through the college’s women-only engineering course.
They were asked by Skills Development Scotland to help develop a web based application that can be used to raise awareness of equality issues in the STEM sector. Laura Phillips explained, “We came up with the idea of a computer game which we thought would appeal to young people and which would give them a feel for STEM subjects. It’s aimed at pupils about to make subject choices so the game could help influence what they decide to study.
“Eco City is about tackling inequality in the STEM industry. The game challenges players to create a city whose success depends on creating a fair and inclusive society. Players’ decisions affect the outcome enormously.”
Paul Little, Principal and Chief Executive, City of Glasgow College, said, “We are delighted that two students who started in our pioneering women into engineering course have been selected by a high profile panel of judges to present their work to a global network of STEM professionals, educators and fellow students.
“Traditionally this competition has exclusively been represented by university students so this achievement underlines my firm belief that colleges stand equally, shoulder to shoulder with universities, and is yet another example of City of Glasgow College students’ ability to compete on the world stage.”
Douglas Morrison, Curriculum Head STEM Industry Academy at City of Glasgow College, said, “We are thrilled that Laura and Bunmi are to present their work at such a high profile international STEM conference. Their success demonstrates our global reach and impact, and highlights the huge advancements in STEM at City of Glasgow College.
“Their project – Project Steminist – was put forward as a showcase presentation following three rounds of competition between the boldest and brightest young minds at a global level. The judging panel praised the ‘creativity and innovation, impacts on students’ STEM development and education, and promising interactive delivery at the venue’.”
Laura Phillips recently won Equate Scotland’s Interconnect Student Award which celebrates female students who have gone above and beyond to support, mentor or promote women in STEM. Both women are recognised as STEM Ambassadors.
Eco City has been funded by Skills Development Scotland and developed by Animmersion.
The International STEM Students’ Forum 2017 is hosted by the Vocational Training Council of Hong Kong it serves as a platform for STEM students and teachers in Higher education in various countries.
Links
Please follow this link to see a video of Project Steminist with Bumni and Laura.