On 27 May 2025, UIC had the pleasure of hosting the final of the Rail Innovation Challenge at its headquarters in Paris. Organised jointly by FERROCAMPUS and AFFI, the competition invited students to propose innovative, inclusive, and sustainable solutions to address key challenges in the rail sector.
The event was moderated by the Vice President of AFFI, François-Xavier Picard, as well as the Head of Partnerships at AFFI, Jean-Jacques Mogoro, who introduced the objectives of the challenge and the structure of the event. The programme began with opening remarks delivered by representatives of FERROCAMPUS and AFFI, highlighting the importance of innovation, inclusion, and sustainability in the future development of the rail sector.
A jury of 11 members, representing various institutions and companies in the rail sector, was tasked with evaluating the presentations and selecting the winning teams.
Finalist Presentations
Following a call for proposals, six finalist teams were selected to present their innovative solutions during the final round of the competition. Each team was given the opportunity to pitch their project to the jury and audience, addressing key challenges:
1. TriTrack: A solution for optimising freight wagon sorting operations
2. GEA: “Assis’train”, an application to support vulnerable travellers and reduce student precarity
3. Gaurdians: Safe and reliable luggage storage on trains for a stress-free journey
4. Bocconcini: “Safe and Sound Seniors”, a platform helping the elderly passengers take the train
5. GW Clean Braking: A solution for improving cleanliness and hygiene in metro systems
6. Les Challengers: A connected navigation tool to improve the passenger onboarding experience
Partner Contributions
In addition to the team presentations, representatives from partner organisations - including Fer de France, Alstom, SNCF Mass Transit Academy, Wabtec Corporation, Eurostar, La Vie du Rail, Agorize, and UIC - spoke about their respective roles and reaffirmed their commitment to fostering innovation in rail.
Awards
Following the team presentations and a round of questions from the jury, three prizes were announced as well as a general public prize, reflecting the preferences of the broader audience.
1. First Prize and General Public Prize: Bocconcini
2. Second Prize: GW Clean Braking
3. Third Prize: Les Challengers
The event concluded with a networking reception, providing an opportunity for students, jury members, and professionals to exchange ideas and explore opportunities for collaboration.
