A seventh grade student has attracted attention at the Bachaapreneur competition hosted at the National Incubation Centre in Karachi after developing a smart stick designed to assist visually impaired individuals through sound and vibration alerts. The device, engineered to detect obstacles within a three foot range, was created by Radhe Krishna, who has been exploring robotics since Grade 5. Radhe shared that his interest initially grew from a social media video, which encouraged him to research and create successive prototypes before finalizing the current version. The invention was presented before judges, founders and participating students at the event, highlighting how young learners are increasingly interacting with technology and product design at an early age.
The smart stick uses sensors that generate a warning beep which accelerates as the user approaches an object. Radhe explained that the device differs significantly from a regular white cane typically priced between Rs 2200 and Rs 2500. His device costs Rs 15,000 and incorporates features that offer greater independence and safety. It is rechargeable and can be powered through a standard plug in charger, which he believes makes it more practical for daily use. He designed the integrated box housing the electronics on his own, assembling the buzzer, vibrator and wiring after independently researching the components. According to Radhe, the custom build allowed him to configure the device to match the needs he identified during the testing phases.
Radhe also discussed his plans to expand the stick’s capabilities. His next target is to include GPS functionality that would guide users through audio navigation, making the device even more useful for individuals who require real time directional support. He aims to reduce the size of the box, improve the weight balance and add sensors capable of identifying lower level obstacles on the ground. These upgrades, he said, would make the device more comprehensive and suitable for a wider range of environments. His commitment to enhancing the design reflects a growing understanding among young innovators about assistive technologies and the importance of user centered improvement.
The Bachaapreneur competition featured a range of ideas presented by students who demonstrated clarity and confidence in their concepts. Three of the best ideas were awarded cash prizes, and another three were selected to place their products in major retail stores. Among the notable participants was seventh grader Muhammad Abbas Burhanuddin from the Bohra community, who introduced BrainVita Kits, which combine more than 20 types of seeds and are suited for all age groups. Abbas shared that the business was started by his grandmother and that he participated in the competition to raise awareness about the product’s benefits.
Judges Fazal Ahmed Siddiqui and Sehrish Rehan appreciated the participants, noting that the competition helped young students build confidence and explore diverse paths in technology and entrepreneurship. The event was organised with support from the LUMS Centre for Entrepreneurship, NIC Islamabad and NIC Hyderabad, with the aim of encouraging children to engage early with innovation and problem solving.
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