The event underscores the importance in integrating research and communities and the bilateral relationship between Australia and China.
The Torch Innovation Expo 2023, on 10 October, marked the seventh anniversary of the Torch Innovation Precinct. Hosted by UNSW Sydney, it highlighted the University's advancements in key areas that benefit global communities for a more sustainable future, including clean energy, health and biotech, digital technology, water and environment, advanced materials and manufacturing, and social sciences.
The event brought together esteemed guests, including Minister Counsellor Jianing Cai, representing Ambassador Qian Xiao, Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the People's Republic of China to the Commonwealth of Australia, Senator the Hon. Tim Ayres, Assistant Minister for Trade and Assistant Minister for Manufacturing, along with more than 120 delegates from local and international industry partners, corporates, suppliers, end-users, SMEs and government officials.
With more than 30 UNSW researchers participating, the Expo facilitated informative discussions and demonstrations, enabling participants to gain insights into the translational research conducted at the University. Attendees also had the opportunity to visit innovative facilities including the Solar Industrial Research Facility, James N. Kirby Makerspace, Elec Makerspace and Michael Crouch Innovation Centre.
The discussions and presentations underscored the significant role played by the Torch Innovation Precinct in integrating research and communities, leading to impactful solutions for global challenges. The event also highlighted the strong bilateral relationship between Australia and China and the shared commitment to continued collaboration in the realm of technology.
At the opening ceremony, Professor Nicholas Fisk, Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research & Enterprise, said, "The Torch Precinct here at UNSW has made pretty amazing progress in partnerships, research, commercialisation, knowledge exchange and engagement with our industry partners."
Professor Attila Brungs, UNSW Vice-Chancellor and President, said, "So far, we have signed more than $100 million in research contracts on 250 projects through the UNSW Torch initiatives. That is positive for both Australia and China – but most importantly, it is positive for the communities we serve – because the work we do together has a tremendous economic and social impact across many sectors of society."
The Expo culminated in the signing of collaborative agreements between the University and several prominent enterprises and institutions from regions, including Shandong and Chongqing China, fostering future partnerships and joint research endeavours.
At the gala dinner, Prof. Fisk announced the reappointment of Professor David Waite as the Academic Ambassador of UNSW Torch, acknowledging his continued contributions to the University's mission.
Watch the highlights of the Torch Innovation Expo 2023.
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