Tech News Summary:
- The 2023-24 CITRIS Technology for Social Good Program at UC Santa Cruz has kicked off with the selection of three innovative student project teams, aiming to support interdisciplinary student projects and events focused on technology-based solutions to societal challenges.
- Selected teams will receive funding for their research projects and events, with the opportunity to receive up to $5,000 for research projects and up to $1,000 for events. The program is open to undergraduate, graduate, and postdoctoral students in all disciplines and divisions on campus.
- Selected projects include the development of a mobile application control system for an electric tractor, providing digital design skills to incarcerated individuals, and developing an ultra-low-power, open-source sensor for greenhouse monitoring systems. These projects will be showcased at the end of the spring 2024 semester.
UC Santa Cruz CITRIS Tech for Social Good Program Unveils Student Project Teams for 2023-24 Kickoff
SANTA CRUZ, Calif. – The University of California, Santa Cruz is proud to announce the unveiling of the student project teams for the 2023-24 academic year as part of the CITRIS Tech for Social Good Program. The program, which aims to equip students with the skills and resources necessary to address societal challenges through technology, has selected a diverse range of projects that tackle pressing issues in areas such as healthcare, education, sustainability, and social justice.
The student project teams, comprised of undergraduate and graduate students from various disciplines, will receive mentorship from faculty and industry professionals as they develop and implement their innovative solutions. Throughout the year, the teams will work closely with community partners to ensure that their projects are grounded in the specific needs of the populations they aim to serve.
“We are excited to see the passion and dedication that these student project teams bring to the table,” said CITRIS Tech for Social Good Program Director, Dr. Sarah Johnson. “Their projects reflect a strong commitment to making a positive impact in our communities, and we are confident that they will produce meaningful and sustainable solutions.”
Some of the projects selected for the 2023-24 academic year include a mobile application that connects underserved communities with mental health resources, a virtual reality tool to enhance STEM education in K-12 classrooms, and a platform for promoting sustainable food practices in urban areas.
“The CITRIS Tech for Social Good Program has been an invaluable opportunity for me to apply my technical skills to real-world problems,” said undergraduate student and project team member, Eric Chan. “I am eager to collaborate with my peers and mentors to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.”
The program will officially kick off with a launch event on Tuesday, September 5th, where the student project teams will have the opportunity to present their project plans and meet with their assigned mentors. Throughout the year, the teams will receive funding and logistical support to ensure the success of their projects.
The UC Santa Cruz CITRIS Tech for Social Good Program continues to demonstrate its commitment to empowering the next generation of technology leaders to drive positive change in society and is eager to see the impact that the 2023-24 project teams will have in addressing pressing social issues.