Steap suggested on IRC to start developing a GUI for the package manager, isn't that a good project? Students could use it to get familiar with Guix and free software development. That project would also give you autonomy; you will still need to communicate with Guix developers, but you will be able to use your own project management system, repository, conventions, etc.

In eight months I would not expect a "version 1.0" software from inexperienced students, though. I think the results should be guessed by you and the mentors from the university based on your experience and the experience of the students in free software development and tools.