Ulster University marks 40 years of computing in Derry~Londonderry

Ulster University has brought together students, faculty, industry experts, and members of the local community to mark the milestone of 40 years of computing at its Derry~Londonderry campus.

In an anniversary celebration on 20 November, the School of Computing brought together stakeholders to explore current innovations and imagine what the future may hold for computing and wider society.

The day featured a Pitch and Judge competition for secondary school students across the North West who were challenged to ‘Envisage 2064’ and imagine what computing may look like, and how it will change society, 40 years from now.

With participation from over 60 students, the young people explored future transformative changes in technology, society, and sustainability through computing, before presenting for a panel of judges.

After four decades innovating from the heart of Derry~Londonderry, the School of Computing also opened the doors to the Intelligent Systems Research Centre for public tours that provided a glimpse into Ulster University’s ongoing projects and future aspirations, underscoring the University’s commitment to advancing technological innovation and contributing to breakthroughs that impact industries, healthcare, and daily life.

The event concluded with a public lecture by Professor Michaela Black, Professor of Artificial Intelligence at Ulster University, on ‘Demystifying the Hype of AI’.

Professor Black shared insights on AI’s trajectory, its societal impact and what the future holds in this exciting field, unpacking the often-misunderstood aspects of artificial intelligence, examining its societal impact, ethical implications, and the potential challenges and breakthroughs we may see in the years to come.