Top ICT students head to China to explore innovation trends

More than 10,000 students from 54 countries have visited China with the annual program since it was launched in 2008.

Jungco and Bryant have been selected to join other high-achieving information and computer technology (ICT) students from across the country, who come from the five universities that make up the Australian Technology Network (ATN). ATN members are RMIT, QUT, University of Technology Sydney, University of South Australia and Curtin University.

They will spend much of the two-week trip working closely with researchers in Huawei’s research laboratories in Shenzhen, China’s Silicon Valley.

Jungco is in her second year of a Bachelor of Engineering (Electrical and Communication Engineering) (Honours) degree. 

“I applied for this trip because I think it will be a great opportunity to see inside Huawei since I want to focus my studies on communications engineering,” she said.

“I think being selected shows women who are studying in a male-dominated field that we are equal, that our hard work and skills can pay off.

“I also thought, this is a great chance to travel to a country I’ve never been before.”

Bryant is studying for a Bachelor of Engineering (Electrical Engineering) (Honours).

He said: “I put my hand up for this trip to develop technical skills relevant to my study area and to learn more about Chinese culture, language and business/trade.

“Huawei is an industry leader, so it will be extremely interesting to see how the company operates and the research and development they undertake.

“I’m hoping to develop basic written and spoken Mandarin skills, as well as learn about current and future telecommunication technologies, Huawei and business in China.”

The students will visit Huawei’s research and development labs, and its exhibition and logistics centres, with a focus on 5G, the enabler to the Internet of Things (IoT).

The group will also travel to Beijing where they spend one week at the Beijing Language and Cultural University. There they will have the opportunity to interact with local students and learn more about Chinese culture and language.

ATN Executive Director, Renee Hindmarsh, said: “Huawei’s Seeds for the Future program is a fantastic opportunity for ATN students to interact with state-of-the art technology, get first-hand experience and learn vital multicultural business skills within the global ICT sector.

“We are excited for our students, who will get the chance to network with true industry leaders and other like-minded individuals, and come back with new skills to thrive and excel in their future careers.”

Jeremy Mitchell, Director of Corporate and Public Affairs at Huawei, said: “Seeds for the Future helps develop talent in Australia and encourages participation in the international ICT community.

“We are delighted to see this year’s female participation at 50 per cent. We believe that empowering women in the tech sector has a positive effect on our industry, boosts our economy and ensures Australia maintains a global competitive workforce in the future.”

Story: David Glanz