700 students, 28 international business assignments, and a week full of innovation
Last week, it was that time again: the 28th edition of International Project Week. And what a week it was! More than 700 students (from Saxion and partner universities in Germany, Switzerland, and Portugal) tackled real challenges faced by technical companies in the region. In teams of about eight people, they worked hard on innovative solutions, smart process optimizations, and innovative product concepts.
The week kicked off on Monday with an inspiring kick-off at the Music Center in Enschede. None other than Prof. Ionica Smeets set the tone for a week full of creativity and collaboration. The diversity of backgrounds, disciplines, and cultures ensured a vibrant exchange of ideas and perspectives: exactly what IPW stands for!
For five days, the teams immersed themselves in their assignments. Friday was the moment of truth: the poster presentations. Here, all teams presented their results, after which the best groups were honored with awards and prizes.
And the winners are...
- Entrepreneurship Award (presented by Rob Reuvekamp, SCvO):
Team G076 – With their assignment for Sela, they showed that entrepreneurship is in their DNA. Their product can be on the market within 12 months. - Onmeunig Circular Design Award (presented by Arie Paul van den Beukel, lecturer in Industrial Design):
Team G059 – Their research for Cinergie Twente is a textbook example of circular thinking and design. - International Project Week Awards (presented by Stephan Maathuis, director of the Life Science, Engineering & Design academy):
1st prize: Team G028, 2nd prize: Team G078, 3rd prize: Team G056
These teams represented the true IPW spirit: international, multidisciplinary, and full of innovative power!
To all the winners: congratulations on your well-deserved prizes! To all participants: thank you for another unforgettable week full of energy, collaboration, and brilliant ideas. You have shown what students are capable of when they push boundaries together. See you next year!