Dr. Rihana Ishaq, Director of Engineering at Christ Church University supported the recent STEM Pop-up competition held in collaboration with the Rotary Club of Canterbury, by taking on the role of the chair of judges.

The Canterbury Rotary Club run an annual innovation competition for local school children, however this year changes were needed to maintain social distancing and meet government guidelines in response to COVID-19. In response, a “Pop-Up” competition as an alternative that accepted entries from students online.

The challenge was for entrants to think of a novel, simple and robust way of making life more enjoyable or solving a problem that they have experienced during lockdown and the subsequent easing of restrictions. The solution had to be in the form of an idea, device or product (not an app). All entries were judged on the basis of originality, clarity and presentation.

Dr Rihana Ishaq, Director of Engineering at the University, and chair of judges for the competition said, “We want to congratulate all students for their efforts and imagination in addressing current societal problems with products and concepts that will really help people in the current situation of managing their lives in a pandemic. The standard of all the work was really impressive and the students took a lot of time to develop their products and ideas and make their case.”

In addition, recognition was given to Helen Ward, Lydia Ahern and James Bennett for their involvement, who are part of Canterbury STEM Hub, based on the Canterbury Campus.