The ECIU University Forum in Trento (Italy) has gathered 275 participants from all over Europe for two days of panels, discussions and interactive sessions – with the Team Impact Award as one of the biggest highlights. It presented participants with a unique opportunity to share their ECIU University story of making an impact, as well as showcase the impact this experience has had on them.
Now in its second year, the Award had 9 teams from different universities apply, with all the stories being nothing short of incredible. However, one stood out especially – putting the team from Dublin City University (DCU) into the spotlight and earning them a well-deserved victory.
‘We were inspired by last year’s winners and what they had achieved to support students’ health,’ says dr Mairéad Nic Giolla Mhichíl, Director of Micro-Credential Strategy and Innovation and Head of DCU Studio. ‘But we also knew that we had done something special and in a completely different domain.’
‘We felt that we made an impact on a very personal level and wanted to celebrate the collaboration that inspired us to do more’.
It all started with the unique learning opportunity called ‘EcoTech Challenge: Pioneering innovative technologies for a sustainable future’. The DCU team partnered with Uisce Éireann – Ireland's national regulated water utility responsible for delivering safe and sustainable water services across the country. Together, they set an important goal to help ensure access to clean and safe water for the most vulnerable members of society.
It was also a unique opportunity for the learners, with 28 students from 5 different countries participating. Joining the Challenge was more than just learning for them. They were also able to address a real-life problem – and gain practical experience tackling it.
‘What stood out to me is the way the students embraced the opportunity to contribute to a collaborative project, where not everything was spelled out for them,’ shares Clare Gormley, Senior Academic Developer with the Teaching Enhancement Unit at DCU. ‘They even told us it made them more confident about tackling challenges in their future workplace.’
And of course, none of this would be possible without Uisce Éireann’s own efforts and contribution, which ensured the Challenge’s success.
‘They offered valuable feedback at every stage,’ says Dr Cliona McParland, a teamcher and Assistant Professor at DCU Business School. 'Such commitment and willingness to collaborate with the students throughout the process played a key role in motivating them to create evidence-based solutions. Not only did this shape the final outcomes, but it also significantly boosted the students' confidence.’
The Challenge didn’t just end with developing solutions and policy recommendations. Some of these solutions are currently being implemented by Uisce Éireann as part of their Strategic Initiative Improvement Program – and some have already become reality.
For example, following students’ suggestions, Uisce Éireann has increased its presence on social media. This strategy has already proved useful when Ireland was struck by Storm Éowyn in Winter, and helped the water services provider ensure a transparent and smooth communication with the public. Another solution – a text alert system for vulnerable members of society – has been turned into a TV advertisement and broadcast at the beginning of the year.
‘Seeing one of our key recommendations presented to the public really was a very proud moment for us and all students involved. As Mairead mentioned during the ECIU University Forum, it was like winning the Eurovision Song Contest,’ says Cliona McParland.
According to the teamchers, Uisce Éireann is already considering another joint project with Dublin City University, planned for the next learning year. So while the Challenge has come to an end, the partnership between DCU and the utility has just begun.
‘We’re fortunate to have public sector bodies in Ireland that are open to research and eager to collaborate with institutions to drive meaningful change,’ points out Cliona McParland. ‘What began as a simple conversation has evolved into a significant and impactful shift — one that our students can connect with on multiple levels. They have played a direct role in shaping this future, contributing to meaningful change.’
The team attended the ECIU University Forum 2025 in person, where they got to share their story with fellow participants – and learn more about others’ journeys.
‘The skills that we learned during the Challenge are very future-proof,’ says Cathal McFarland, one of the participants and a student at the Digital Business and Innovation (DBI) programme at DCU Dublin Business School. ‘After applying them in a real-world situation, I've gained a lot of confidence.’
‘I think we all felt our batteries recharge and overflow at the Forum,’ shares Mairéad Nic Giolla Mhichíl. ‘It was a huge privilege to be recognised for our contributions by ECIU University colleagues and to see the great work done by others.’
‘The teams worked to make an impact in so many unique and interesting ways. To me, this is what the ECIU University is all about,’ she adds.
The Forum also presented an incredible opportunity to connect. With so many like-minded participants pushing for change and innovation, it both created new bonds and strengthened the existing ones.
‘It was a powerful community-building opportunity,' shares Clare Gormley. ‘I really enjoyed getting to meet and learn from others in person. After all, it’s hard to beat that in-person connection.’
While the second ECIU University Forum is over, for many participants it’s just the beginning of new connections, aspirations and partnerships. With the next Forum already in the works, both the event and Team Impact Award are here to spotlight one of ECIU University’s biggest strengths – the community.
At the end of the day, it’s all about the community that works together for a better future, making a real impact and embracing new perspectives.
‘ECIU University has the power to change your mindset,’ says Mairéad Nic Giolla Mhichíl. ‘Through ECIU University and its learning opportunities, we are trying to move people out of their comfort zones and into solution zones. That’s what drives real change and impact.’
Congratulations to the team from Dublin City University on winning the second Team Impact Award! Watch the video introducing EcoTech Challenge below – and learn more about it from the teamchers and learners themselves.
Author: Anastasia Bukhtiarova
Photos: Pierre Teyssot