Three students from a Dagenham school have the opportunity for a once-in-a-lifetime trip after reaching the final of a national competition.
Ayi, Autumn and Junaina, who attend The Sydney Russell School, submitted their project to the National Innovation Challenge (NIC) earlier this year, and were delighted to find out recently that they had been shortlisted in the schools category.
Led by Harrow, Richmond and Uxbridge Colleges (HRUC) in collaboration with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Industrial Liaison Program, the NIC received submissions from students across the UK on the theme of Sustainability and AI.
Participants were tasked with tackling some of the world’s most pressing problems by designing innovations that could contribute to a more sustainable future.
Four schools and four colleges have been shortlisted for the final. The winners, who will earn a trip to MIT in the United States to collaborate with world-leading researchers, will be announced at an awards evening in central London in late June.
The NIC is sponsored by Amazon, building on HRUC’s existing relationship with the tech giant.
Ayi, Autumn and Junaina submitted their proposal for an app called Cleara, which aims to reduce littering by rewarding users for collecting rubbish in their local area. Using prompts and incentives, Cleara turns the clean-up process into a fun and engaging community activity.
Junaina said:
“The whole process has been such a positive experience but advancing to the finals has made this extraordinary journey feel surreal. I am truly honoured to be a part of this unique programme.”
Ayi said:
“I have enjoyed the process from the very beginning but reaching the finals feels incredible. To be able to participate and make it this far is truly a pivotal moment for me.”
Autumn said:
“I’m beyond excited to be included in this challenge and have loved every minute of it. I am so proud of all of our efforts and for making it to the final.”
Cleara aims to raise awareness of environmental issues at an early age and encourages more mindful behaviour. By bringing together people who are working towards a shared goal, it also gives people the chance to meet others and build connections.
Anita Haslett, Student Enrichment Director at The Sydney Russell School, added:
“I am incredibly proud of the students. Their work ethic and commitment throughout this process have been inspirational. The fact that we have three young women, representing their school and the East End of London, is remarkable and highlights the hidden gems within this community. I have been truly honoured to be part of this process and watch our students grow into innovators.”
Yaseen Akhtar, Managing Director of the West London Institute of Technology, HRUC, said:
“I have been truly impressed by the creativity and exceptional quality of submissions. The finalists have demonstrated how innovative thinking and the effective use of AI can help tackle some of the most pressing sustainability challenges facing our society. I look forward to celebrating their achievements and recognising their hard work at the NIC final.”
