Students at Munster Technological University (MTU) have joined forces with healthcare, community and industry organisations in Ireland and overseas to develop innovative solutions to real-world challenges through the MTU Innovation Challenge 2026.

Challenges were set by the Crann Centre, Cork University Hospital, Marymount University Hospital & Hospice, MyGug, and Mulago National Referral Hospital in Uganda.

Healthcare, assistive technology, sustainability and digital innovation

Ten interdisciplinary teams of students – from across MTU’s six campuses in Cork and Kerry, alongside peers from the University of Crete in Greece, the University of Rouen in France, Makerere University in Uganda, and Murang'a University of Technology in Kenya – worked closely with partner organisations during the eight week programme to apply design thinking and innovation methods to live challenges spanning healthcare, assistive technology, sustainability and digital innovation.

The challenge included two winning teams – Team Coaxial and Team Flowtrack who were chosen for their cost and time savings solutions. Flowtrack worked with Cork University Hospital to design an affordable tracking system and mobile app for infusion devices, while Coaxial partnered with Mulago National Referral Hospital in Uganda to redevelop a coaxial biopsy needle for settings with limited resources.

Other projects developed during the challenge included solutions to support wheelchair users’ independence and mobility and improve patient safety and comfort in palliative care; and the creation of digital tools to support sustainability and business growth.

'Incredibly fulfilling'

Mabel Hayes, third year biomedical engineering student, MTU and member of the ‘Mulago National Referral Hospital Challenge’ team said: “What I loved most about taking part in the Innovation Challenge was being able to apply what we’ve learnt to a real-world healthcare problem. It is a great opportunity to step outside your comfort zone, build practical skills, and make a genuine impact. You learn so much in a short space of time, and it’s incredibly fulfilling to see your ideas develop into something tangible.”

Professor Hugh McGlynn, vice president for research and innovation at MTU, said: “The MTU Innovation Challenge gives students a unique opportunity to apply their learning to real issues being faced by healthcare providers, community organisations and industry. This year’s programme highlighted the creativity, collaboration and problem-solving ability of our students, and showed the real value of bringing together different disciplines, perspectives and international partners to develop solutions with genuine potential for impact.”

Now in its ninth year, the MTU Innovation Challenge continues to give students valuable experience in tackling real-world problems while helping organisations access fresh thinking and innovative ideas. For further information on student innovation and entrepreneurship at MTU, visit https://www.mymtu.ie/shed/