Technology experts from across the globe gathered in Glasgow to discuss the future of communications, in an international conference co-hosted by three leading Scottish universities.

The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) International Conference on Communications (ICC) took place from 24 - 28 May at the Scottish Event Campus and Crowne Plaza Hotel, bringing together tech leaders from academia, industry, and government. 

Led in partnership by University of the West of Scotland (UWS), University of Glasgow, University of Strathclyde and the IEE Communications society, this year’s event - Connected World for a Sustainable Future - focused on how communication networks are being transformed by AI, cloud‑native architectures, sustainability and 6G.

More than 2,800 international delegates from over 70 countries attended. With a range of workshops, industry demonstrations and networking opportunities, as well as the chance to hear from industry keynote speakers from the likes of VodafoneThree, Ericsson, Qualcomm, and Huawei. 

Marking the centenary of the creation of the television by Scottish inventor and innovator, John Logie Baird, the event was also attended by his grandson, Iain Logie Baird, who discussed his grandfather's pioneering work and reflected on TV’s evolution.

Students and colleagues from UWS hosted an exhibition on the Digital Connectivity and Innovation Centre (DCIC), a wireless innovation hub based at the institution’s Ayr campus, demonstrating the use cases of 5G in aerospace and engineering in the Prestwick Aerospace Cluster.

Delegates also accessed programmes such as STEM training and a Women in Communications Engineering mentoring, while students benefitted from a dedicated careers fair and networking opportunities with leaders in the industry.  

Professor of Wireless Communications at UWS and DCIC Director, Muhammad Zeeshan Shakir, who served as Executive Co-Chair of the conference, said: “Events like IEE ICC 2026 are inspiring as not only to they remind us how far technology has come, they confirm how truly exciting the current climate is for communication and digital innovation.

“Scotland has a growing influence in shaping international research and innovation agendas, with huge opportunities for future growth. We are honoured to have welcomed tech leaders from across the world to demonstrate the work we’re doing at the University of the West of Scotland to support this agenda and foster a thriving digital economy. Thank you to the organising committee and all those involved in making this event a success.”

Professor James Miller, Principal & Vice-Chancellor of UWS, said: “Scotland itself has a proud tradition of scientific discovery and engineering achievement. It is therefore appropriate that ICC 2026 was hosted here in Glasgow.

“At a time when the world faces complex and interconnected challenges, the importance of collaboration between academia, industry, and government has never been greater. Thanks to the success of this event, we’re delighted to have had the opportunity to build new collaborations, exchange bold ideas, support emerging talent, and contribute to shaping a more connected, inclusive, and sustainable future.”

The work directly addresses the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 4, Quality Education, Goal 8, Decent Work and Economic Growth, and Goal 9, Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure.