Two talented students from Wales are in the running for a life-changing trip to the United States after reaching the final of a prestigious national competition.
DYLAN, from Bridgend College, and Carys, a pupil at Ysgol Gyfun Gymraeg Bro Edern in Cardiff, have both been shortlisted in the colleges category of the National Innovation Challenge (NIC) 2026.
The competition, led by Harrow, Richmond and Uxbridge Colleges (HRUC) in partnership with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Industrial Liaison Program, invited students from across the UK to submit ideas under the theme of Sustainability and AI.
Entrants were challenged to come up with innovations aimed at tackling some of the world’s most pressing environmental issues and contributing to a more sustainable future.
This year’s final will see four schools and four colleges competing for the top prize. Winners will earn a trip to MIT in the United States, where they will work alongside leading researchers. The successful projects will be announced at an awards ceremony in central London later this month.
The NIC is sponsored by Amazon, building on the company’s existing relationship with HRUC.
Renewable energy and recycling ideas impress judges
Dylan’s shortlisted project, Modular Hydro-Vein, is a renewable energy concept designed to generate low-cost hydroelectric power around the clock.
The compact module is designed to sit on a riverbed like a stepping stone and could provide a cheaper and more reliable source of electricity than wind or solar power, while avoiding harm to the natural environment.
Ruth Rowland, Enterprise Champion at Bridgend College, said: “Everyone at Bridgend College is delighted that Dylan has been selected as a finalist for the NIC. We are incredibly proud of all the hard work he has put in to develop his fantastic idea, and wish him a wonderful evening at the awards ceremony. Pob lwc, Dylan!”
Dylan added: “Shift how you look at things. Suddenly, limits disappear and ingenuity takes over.”
Carys’ project, SmartSort, is a worktop recycling device designed to make sorting household waste easier and more accurate.
Using QR code scanning technology, SmartSort identifies packaging materials and provides real-time recycling guidance on an LCD display. The aim is to reduce contamination in recycling collections — a major issue which can result in otherwise recyclable waste being rejected and sent to landfill.
Carys said: “I’m extremely proud to have been selected as an NIC finalist. Applying for this competition has truly helped me develop my skills as a future engineer and has inspired me as I take the next steps in my career.”
Dewi Thomas, Head of Technology at Ysgol Gyfun Gymraeg Bro Edern, praised her achievement. He said: “We are exceptionally proud of Carys and her growing list of accomplishments. It’s brilliant to see her receiving recognition for her diligence and dedication.
“Innovation lies at the heart of every project she has undertaken with us, and I look forward to seeing her progress into the world of work. The HRUC NIC provides a platform for the talent of tomorrow to be celebrated, while also giving them valuable exposure to the world of further education and industry.”
Yaseen Akhtar, Managing Director of the West London Institute of Technology at HRUC, said he had been impressed by the standard of entries received.
He said: “The finalists have demonstrated how innovative thinking and the effective use of AI can help tackle some of the most pressing sustainability challenges facing our society. I look forward to celebrating their achievements and recognising their hard work at the NIC final.”
