TECHNOLOGY | Xinyx Design Launches UNLOCKED 2024 to Empower Young Innovators
Xinyx Design, a premier integrated circuit design engineering firm, is set to launch the second edition of UNLOCKED, an innovations pitching contest aimed at fostering creativity and innovation within the academic community. Scheduled for May 2024, this year’s event promises to be larger and more impactful, offering students a platform to present solutions for community issues and bring their ideas to life.
UNLOCKED is a cornerstone initiative of Xinyx’s Campus Connect program. This program aims to highlight the Philippines’ microchip design capabilities, promote integrated circuit (IC) design as a career path, and demonstrate Xinyx’s dedication to nurturing a vibrant innovation ecosystem in the country.
Innovations Pitching Contest
Undergraduate students nationwide, particularly those studying Electronics Engineering, Electrical Engineering, and Computer Engineering, are encouraged to submit their innovative ideas. These ideas will be judged by a panel of industry experts and investors, with a focus on addressing urban challenges under the theme, “From Problems to Possibilities: Building Tomorrow’s Cities Today.”
Last year’s inaugural contest, held in December 2023, drew participants from across the Philippines, including major island groups from Northern Luzon to General Santos City in Mindanao. The competition saw over 60 submissions, culminating in ten finalist projects. These projects ranged from advancements in agriculture and healthcare to solutions for solid waste management. The grand prize was awarded to a team from FAITH Colleges in Batangas for “GestuLearn,” an interactive learning system using real-time hand detection and gesture recognition to aid teaching students with disabilities. Ivan Renz Eser, the team leader, is now interning at Xinyx Design, illustrating how UNLOCKED can pave the way for career opportunities.
Prizes and Recognition
Beyond the potential for their ideas to attract investor interest, the top three student groups will receive cash prizes. The grand winner will take home Php 70,000, while the first and second runners-up will receive Php 20,000 and Php 10,000, respectively.
To provide more information about the event and participation details, Xinyx Design will host the UNLOCKED Online Roadshow via Zoom on June 8th, 2024. Students, faculty, and technology enthusiasts can register for the event through the Xinyx website.
