Computer Games Development students win first prize at BCS AGD Artefact competition 2024

Computer Games Development BSc Honours graduates Vanessa Mendez, Ines Lobo and Yoanna Gramatikova have been awarded first place at the British Computer Society (BCS) Open Competition 2024.

The alumni, who have recently graduated with First Class Honours from the Computer Games Development BSc course, competed in the BCS Animation and Games Development (AGD) Specialist Group (SGs) Artefact Open Competition 2024 with this year's theme being AI for Good. The challenge required them to submit a game experience in an application based on Artificial Intelligence (AI), including Avatars. The team submitted an extension of the concept project recently published in the Immersive Learning Research Project 2024 conference titled Enhancing Learning Through AI: An Approach to Ocean Conservations and Recycling Education. The project utilises conservational AI technology to develop an immersive application educating users about the significance of conserving marine resources, aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. This is achieved through the development of a 3D game that engages users in activities such as ocean cleanup, recycling and marine life rescue, facilitated by conversational AI that provides educational content on ocean preservation.

The BCS is a forum to influence and improve computing education in all forms to improve opportunities for young people, society and the economy. They create a diverse talent pipeline, inspiring more careers in IT and digital roles. The winners of the competition will receive a certificate and engraved medal as part of their prize, and part of the game will be demonstrated at the Westminster Centre for Education and Teaching Innovation's conference on 5 September.

Discussing their win, Vanessa Mendez said: "Participating in the BCS AGD SG Artefact 2024 competition, themed AI for Good, has been a motivating experience. Together with the ILRN Fuser Game Jam, this has pushed me to explore even deeper how AI can be used to make a positive impact on society. These competitions have not only sharpened my technical skills but also demonstrated my commitment to using technology for meaningful purposes. This experience is a valuable addition to my CV, highlighting my ability to innovate and contribute to real-world solutions. I'm incredibly grateful to everyone who voted for our project and allowed us to win! Your support made this achievement possible."

Yoanna Gramatikova added: "My team and I were thrilled to participate in the BCS AGD SG Artefact 2024 competition, AI for Good, driven by our deep passion for using Artificial Intelligence to positively impact the world. Our project was designed to inspire people to engage with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals in a fun and educational way, highlighting the powerful potential of AI in conserving ocean life and promoting better recycling practices. Winning the competition is not only a great honour but also a powerful affirmation that we are moving in the right direction."

Finally, Ines Lobo said: "Our experience in the BCS AGD SG Artefact 2024 competition, AI for Good, has been incredibly enriching for my team and I. Fueled by our passion for ocean conservation and Artificial Intelligence, we focused on integrating Convai into our game to enhance the player's experience. With this approach, we aimed to inspire others to engage with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Our focus on leveraging AI to conserve ocean life and promote better recycling practices reflects our dedication to environmental stewardship. It showcases the transformative power of technology in addressing global challenges. Winning the competition is a profound honour and a strong affirmation that we are on the right path. It strengthened my resolve to continue exploring AI's potential for social good while broadening my technical expertise in game development. Alongside our involvement in the ILRN Fuser Game Jam, this experience has deepened my understanding of how technology can be harnessed to create meaningful change. I'm incredibly grateful to everyone who supported us and the fantastic experience and knowledge it brought. I am proud to have contributed to a project that truly makes a difference. This achievement is a testament to our collective efforts and AI's impact in driving a better future."

Speaking about the importance of the students' success, Markos Mentzelopoulos, Course Leader of the Computer Games Development BSc Honours course, said: "The British Computer Society accreditation is an important benchmark of our programme's standard in providing high-quality computing education and our commitment to developing future IT professionals. BCS competitions provide an enriching and stimulating environment where our students have the opportunity to showcase their talent in software development. Our success stories are a testament of our graduates' abilities and their readiness for employment."

The winning project directly contributes to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) 12: Responsible Consumption and Production and 14: Life Below Water. Since 2019, the University of Westminster has used the SDGs holistically to frame strategic decisions to help students and colleagues fulfil their potential and contribute to a more sustainable, equitable and healthier society.

Find out more about the Computer Science and Engineering courses at the University of Westminster.

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