TechFest 2026 Inspires the Next Generation of Technology Innovators

The University of Buckingham welcomed local sixth-form students to its annual TechFest event on 17 September, offering an exciting day of hands-on computing experiences, industry insights, and an introduction to university-level study.

The School of Computing at The University of Buckingham welcomed local sixth-form students to TechFest 2026, an immersive day of hands-on computing activities, industry insights and career exploration designed to bring the School’s vision of “fostering skills and innovations in digital technologies for an inclusive and sustainable future” to life.

Students from local schools experienced the exciting worlds of artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, robotics and virtual reality through a programme of workshops, demonstrations and discussions led by academic staff and current students. The University’s School of Computing designed this event to showcase the opportunities available in technology and computing-related careers.

The programme featured interactive sessions in ethical hacking and robotics, a keynote presentation by Dr Madara Premawardhna exploring emerging trends in artificial intelligence and digital twins , opportunities to meet current Computing students, and demonstrations of some of the University’s most innovative technologies, including the Birdly virtual flying simulator and Spot, the University’s robotic dog.

The event received enthusiastic feedback from visiting schools. Trudy Sinacore, Careers Manager at a visiting school, thanked the University for hosting the event, commenting that students enjoyed both the day and the variety of sessions available. She also praised Professor Harin Sellahewa and the Computing team for delivering engaging talks and activities.

Further positive feedback came from Denise Williams, who reported that students had been discussing the experience with their peers after returning to school. She noted that one Year 13 student had expressed a genuine interest in exploring the University further as a future study destination. She also shared photographs of the robotics demonstrations with members of her school’s Robotics Club, who were “beyond impressed” by the projects showcased by Buckingham students and were keen to strengthen links with the University in the future.

Professor Harin Sellahewa, Dean of the Faculty of Computing, Law and Psychology, said:

“TechFest is designed to give young people an opportunity to experience computing in a practical and engaging way, while helping them understand the exciting possibilities that exist within technology careers. It was fantastic to welcome students from local schools and see their enthusiasm and curiosity to learn.”

Throughout the day, students were encouraged to think not only about the technologies shaping the future, but also about how those technologies can be used responsibly to create positive social impact. The event reflected the School of Computing’s commitment to fostering innovation, developing digital skills and inspiring young people to become part of a more inclusive and sustainable technological future.

The overwhelmingly positive feedback from teachers and students demonstrates the value of bringing education and industry-focused experiences together. By introducing young people to emerging technologies and showcasing the opportunities available through higher education, TechFest 2026 successfully delivered on its mission of fostering skills and innovations in digital technologies for an inclusive and sustainable future, while inspiring the next generation of computing professionals.