The Wi-Me technology showcase event made a return this year to expose students to more of the latest trending technologies related to the Internet of Everything (IoE). Held over two days from 16 - 17 November 2016 at TAR UC Main Hall, the event was a follow-up to last year's Wi-Me 2015 event which focused on a similar theme - the Internet of Things (IoT) - though this year's event intended to go deeper into the subject by exploring IoE, a more specific component of IoT. The event featured an exciting and informative exhibition of the latest inventions and products in the field as well as other exciting activities which included talks, games, competitions and even a lucky draw.
The official launch of the event took place on 16 November 2016 at TAR UC Main Hall. Organised by TAR UC's very own students from the Computer Science Society ('CSS') in collaboration with the Faculty of Applied Sciences and Computing ('FASC'), the event garnered encouraging support from the students and was officially launched by Assoc Prof Dr Ng Swee Chin, Vice President of TAR UC. Also present at the event were Assoc Prof Dr Loke Chui Fung, Dean of FASC and Ms Lim Mei Shyan, Deputy Dean of FASC.
The launching ceremony began with a welcome address by the Organising Chairperson of Wi-Me 2.0 2016, Wong Kah Wai who is also a Year 2 student of the Diploma in Science (Computer Science & Computer Mathematics). In his speech, he explained what IoE is in simpler terms. He said, "In the 21st century, the Internet of Everything is not new. Technology companies have been discussing this idea for decades. At its core, IoE is simple. It is about connecting devices over the internet, allowing them to communicate with one another, with applications as well as people. One popular example is the smart fridge. What if your fridge could tell you it is out of milk by texting you when its internal cameras detect that there is none left? This may sound bizarre but it is possible!"
Assoc Prof Dr Ng, in her speech, expressed how impressed she was with the efforts of the students from CSS who organised the entire event. "I am glad that the students organised the event. This shows that they are really keeping abreast with the developments in the information and communication technology (ICT) field," she said.
She also highlighted the importance of having the knowledge on IoT. "26 billion devices will be connected to IoT by 2020. And 95% of business leaders aim to leverage on IoT's vast advantages. However, many are unable to as there are not many developers who are well-versed in this field currently. The Wi-Me event is therefore not only a good platform for various ICT companies to showcase their technology, but also for staff and students to know the latest developments in these technologies," she remarked.
The launching event ended with a tour of the exhibition area. Comprising a total of approximately 10-12 exhibition booths featuring products by leading ICT organisations, the event was indeed a success as closer collaboration and bond was fostered with these leading organisations through their involvement in the event.
