University Shortlisted for Prestigious Digital Innovation Award

Described as the ‘Oscars of Higher Education’, the THE Awards celebrate the exceptional work taking place in universities across the UK. This year, more than 500 entries were submitted across 21 categories, with just 69 institutions making it to the final shortlist from 120 entrants.

Solent’s shortlisting recognises its pioneering use of digital technology to drive sustainability, inclusion, and student support. As the first higher education institution in England to introduce a market-leading catering app used by both students and staff, Solent is leading the way in campus innovation.

In partnership with Sodexo, the University launched the Everyday App via the Dynamify platform in June 2021. The app enables mobile and kiosk food ordering and has quickly become an integral part of campus life. Since its launch, the app has achieved:

• 11,000 users
• Over 135,000 transactions
• £741,000 in turnover

The app has also delivered significant impact:

• A 48% reduction in food waste
• Support for 98 disadvantaged students through contextual offer scholarships
• A more inclusive dining experience, accommodating a wide range of dietary and cultural needs

Bryan Carroll, Solent University’s Director of Estates and Facilities, says, “To be shortlisted is a fabulous achievement. It highlights Solent’s commitment to digital innovation in making a tangible difference to our people experience and to our environmental sustainability credentials.

“The Everyday App has transformed how we engage with and support our students – from reducing food waste to promoting inclusion. We’re proud to be leading the way in using technology, in partnership with Sodexo, to create a more inclusive, sustainable and equitable campus."

Solent’s success has already earned it recognition as a Sodexo Centre of Digital Innovation, and the app is now being rolled out to other universities across the UK.

Alex Verjee, managing director of Universities at Sodexo UK and Ireland said, “We’re proud to partner with Solent University on this pioneering digital initiative, which provides valuable insights into the needs and preferences of students, staff and other campus users. By analysing uptake data and trends, we’ve been able to adapt our food offer to include a wider range of cuisines and price points, helping to increase customer loyalty and ensure the menu is inclusive and reflects the diversity of the campus community. Being shortlisted for a THE Award is a fantastic recognition of the impact this collaboration is making.”

The winners of the THE Awards 2025 will be announced at a ceremony at the EICC in Edinburgh on Thursday 13 November.

Chris Havergal, Editor of Times Higher Education, says, "At a time of unprecedented challenge for higher education, the THE Awards enter their third decade as a steady and staunch reminder of the exceptional work that continues to take place across the UK and Ireland every day, on campuses and beyond.

He added, “We offer our sincere congratulations to all those institutions and individuals shortlisted – it really is an achievement to have reached this stage in a very competitive year."