The 2025 World Universities Student Joint Innovation and Entrepreneurship Project successfully concluded on July 4th. This program co-organized by Beijing University of Chemical Technology (BUCT) and the University of Bradford (UK), brought together 27 young innovators from 8 universities across 11 countries.
Over five months, participants tackled global challenges, evolving from brainstorming bold ideas to practical implementation, ultimately delivering cross-border innovative solutions. BUCT selected 10 undergraduate and postgraduate students from various faculties to participate. The program was jointly hosted by International Exchange and Cooperation Department, Office of Academic Affairs, Student Affairs Office, and School of International Education.
Wang Feng, Vice President of BUCT, attended the closing ceremony and delivered a speech. He highlighted youth as a vital force driving innovation and international cooperation as key to addressing global challenges. When young people from diverse cultural backgrounds unite for a common goal with strong institutional support, they can achieve remarkable results, stated Vice President Wang. He encouraged all participants to carry forward the pioneering spirit and collaborative mindset fostered during this unique Tale of Two Cities experience, urging them to persistently explore and bravely pursue their dreams.
The program commenced with students arriving at the University of Bradford between February 16th and 22nd. An intensive five-day Ideation Storm - Screening & Optimization - Practical Modeling workshop ignited creativity. Over 1,200 initial ideas were debated within dynamic fluid teams, resulting in more than 200 high-potential concepts displayed on a multinational Wall of Wisdom. Through a rigorous three-color sticky note voting system, 16 projects advanced, giving participants early exposure to the resilience required of entrepreneurs.The final phase took place at BUCT from June 30th to July 4th. The full cohort engaged in expert training, business planning, and project defense. Activities were enriched by insights into China's innovation ecosystem, including policy discussions, entrepreneur sharing, expert mentoring, and project roadshows. A visit to BUCT's Innovation Hub further deepened students' understanding of innovation and entrepreneurship while allowing them to experience the distinct innovation cultures of China and the UK firsthand. This phase comprehensively enhanced participants' innovation capabilities and cross-cultural collaboration skills.
The culmination was a Dragons' Den-style roadshow competition, where 14 outstanding projects from diverse fields like EdTech, Green Agriculture, Sustainable Tourism, and Biotechnology were presented. Many projects focused on actively solving pressing global challenges. A panel of judges comprising academics from both universities, industry investors, and experts evaluated projects based on innovation, feasibility, and market potential. Ultimately, five high-potential projects were awarded Seed Funding and will receive incubation support from both BUCT and the University of Bradford to advance implementation and commercialization.
With the successful conclusion of both the UK and China phases, this cross-border innovation journey has reached a significant milestone. BUCT remains committed to building international learning and exchange platforms. The university will continue collaborating with world-renowned institutions to develop diverse, globally-focused innovation and entrepreneurship programs, supporting student ventures and cultivating globally-minded talents with innovative spirit. This fosters mutual learning and shared growth among youth worldwide.
Leaders from International Exchange and Cooperation Department, Office of Academic Affairs, Student Affairs Office, Science Park and School of International Education attended the closing ceremony and presented completion certificates to all project participants.
