The Tech Ideation Challenge 2024, hosted by INTI International College Penang (IICP), highlighted the critical intersection of education, innovation, and industry collaboration. Over two months, from 24 September to 21 November, 20 student teams competed to address real-world challenges through technology, culminating in the Final Tech Ideation Pitching & Exhibition before a panel of industry experts and academics.
The event’s standout project, SolarEd, took home the grand prize with its solar-powered, transportable digital classroom aimed at bridging education gaps in remote communities. Judges praised its ingenuity and social relevance, setting a benchmark for impactful innovation. Other noteworthy projects included SENIV’s self-charging electronics powered by kinetic energy and creative solutions from Super Clean, Thomas-Tech, and Meow-Meow, reflecting the diversity and talent of INTI’s students.
Winners of the Tech Ideation Challenge 2024 celebrate with INTI International College Penang staff and industry partners. Champion team SolarEd, first runner-up SENIV, and other finalists presented innovative solutions for real-world challenges.
“The Tech Ideation Challenge isn’t just a competition; it’s a platform for shaping the problem-solvers and innovators of tomorrow,” said Hemalatha Murugiah, Chief Executive of INTI International College Penang. She emphasised the institution’s dedication to fostering practical, impactful solutions.
SENIV secured the first runner-up position and developed sustainable electronics solutions for everyday devices like wireless mice and keyboards. Team members Tharmeshh A/L Elangkovan and Quah Kah Aik from INTI’s collaborative programmes with Swinburne University of Technology and Coventry University, respectively, valued the feedback and mentorship provided during the competition. “The experience motivated us to push our ideas further, blending innovation with sustainability,” they said.
Team SENIV members Tharmeshh A/L Elangkovan from the Bachelor of Business programme in collaboration with Swinburne University of Technology, and Quah Kah Aik, from the Bachelor of Science in Computing programme in collaboration with Coventry University, receive the first runner-up award from Hemalatha Murugiah, Chief Executive of INTI International College Penang. Their self-charging electronics innovation impressed judges with its sustainable and practical design. and Quah Kah Aik
Key industry partners, including Digital Penang, Exabytes Malaysia, The Asia Foundation, and Strivers’ HUB, played a pivotal role in the competition’s success by providing cash sponsorships, training sessions, and workshops. These collaborations bridged the gap between classroom learning and industry expectations, equipping students with real-world insights and practical skills.
“The success of this challenge lies in its ability to combine creativity with real-world application,” said Hazwan Halim, Project Leader and Lecturer at INTI’s School of Engineering. “By fostering collaboration and innovation, we’re preparing students to navigate and contribute to a rapidly changing global landscape.”
Looking ahead, INTI International College Penang plans to expand the Tech Ideation Challenge, further integrating more mentorship opportunities and industry involvement to elevate its role as a hub for innovation. Through such initiatives, INTI reinforces its commitment to developing graduates equipped to transform ideas into meaningful solutions.
Finalists present their projects to judges and industry experts during the Tech Ideation Pitching & Exhibition at INTI International College Penang.