More success for USW in Wales STEM Awards

The University of South Wales (USW) has been recognised for its outstanding contribution to STEM education, innovation, and community engagement after securing two awards and a Highly Commended at the Wales STEM Awards 2026.

The University's achievements demonstrate its  STEM excellence, from pioneering work in space and artificial intelligence to exceptional teaching, student outcomes, and cyber security education. 

USW's Building Wales' Future Space and Edge AI Capability project was named winner of the Shaping the Future Award. 

The project is helping to develop the skills, research, and innovation needed to support Wales' growing space sector. Working with partners including Space Wales, the Welsh Government, and the UK Space Agency, the initiative aims to inspire more people to explore STEM education and careers while strengthening Wales' position as a sustainable space nation. 

Dr Leshan Uggalla, Senior Lecturer and Project Lead, said: "This award recognises our team’s commitment to inspiring the next generation here in Wales. At USW, we have a responsibility to shape the future and equip people with the skills to thrive.  

“Space sparks excitement and curiosity, and we are using that inspiration to bring more communities into education and STEM. With the University’s full support and that of our partners, Space Wales, the Welsh Government, and the UK Space Agency, we are helping turn the ambition for Wales as a sustainable space nation into opportunities for our communities." 

USW's Applied Sciences team was also named STEM Team of the Year. 

Josephine Bradley, Course Leader for Medical Sciences, said: "We’re absolutely delighted to be named Team of the Year - this recognition means so much. The team has continued to deliver excellent student outcomes, while going above and beyond in outreach and community engagement. These achievements are a real testament to the dedication, resilience and commitment of every member of the team.” 

As well as celebrating two wins, USW’s National Cyber Security Academy also received a Highly Commended accolade in the STEM Educational Programme of the Year (Public Sector) category for its ACE Cyber Security Competition. 

USW was also shortlistedfor: Educational Programme of the Year – Public Sector (USW Building Wales’s Future Space and Edge AI Capability), STEM Community Impact (USW Biology in the Park 2026), and Woman of the Year.