The role of youth as social innovators in sustainable development has been highlighted by many in recent years. Finding creative solutions to complex problems is an important input for innovation. Exploiting new technology and employing out-of-the-box thinking to generate new values Ahamed Ammar Shiham strives to bring about significant societal changes. A 13-year-old, grade eight student of Royal College, Colombo, had come up with a unique product, a pioneering assistive device designed to empower visually impaired individuals by significantly enhancing their safety and independence. Titled The Obstacle Avoiding Smart Cap for the Blind (OASCB) this innovation put Royal College in the spotlight at The Best Innovation Awards 2024 where the school won the Best Innovation Award as a result of Ahamed’s concept.
As a
karate champ
“It was an experience I will never forget. The Best Innovation Awards 2024 was more than just an exhibition or competition. It was a profound gathering of creative minds, united by a shared passion to make the world a better place. I felt truly overwhelmed when I heard that my school had won the Best Innovation Award 2024. At that moment, it wasn’t just about me or my invention. It was about the spirit of our school and the shared belief that we could achieve greatness,” Ahamed recalled his moment of glory with emotion.
The Best Innovation Awards 2024 was conducted by the Industrial Development Board of Ceylon. It unfurled at the BMICH early this year, bringing young innovators from across the country together to showcase their creative assets.
Queried on how he ventured into the innovative path, Ahamed notes that the motivation stemmed from a deeply personal place—a place where empathy and a desire to make a difference converged.
“One day, while riding my bicycle, I had an accident that led to eye injuries. The doctor advised me to cover my eyes to protect them and allow them to heal. During that period, I was plunged into a world of darkness. There were no colours or light. It was just a pitch-black world. This brief experience gave me a profound insight into the challenges faced by those who are visually impaired. I realised how much we take our sight for granted and how difficult it must be to navigate the world without it,” he explained.
After recovering, Ahamed began noticing a small, visually impaired boy who was always accompanied by his mother. Each time he saw him, his heart ached. He felt a deep connection with him. That was when he realised that he wanted to do his bit for others’ welfare. He wanted to gift something meaningful to him and others like him. The result was his debut innovation – the OASCB.
Some medals he had won as an allrounder
However, for Ahmed coming up with this innovative concept was no walk in the park for he had to engage in a lot of research and brainstorming to piece his ideas together so that they could take shape and become a reality. However, his passion towards helping the little boy and many like him powered his determination.
Offering hope
“I wanted to create something that wasn’t just a tool, but a companion. I wished to give them something that would instill confidence and provide a sense of freedom. The innovative cap was born out of this vision. It was my way of telling them that they were not alone. If you have the will, you can overcome any of these challenges,” Ahamed said adding that the concept wasn’t just about creating a device. It was an emblem that restores dignity and offers hope.
The OASCB features four strategically positioned advanced sensors that provide 360-degree obstacle detection, ensuring comprehensive coverage of the user’s surroundings. This real-time detection is processed by a microcontroller, which activates the vibrators to deliver precise, directional tactile feedback, allowing users to intuitively sense and avoid obstacles. Apart from tactile feedback, the OASCB incorporates a buzzer for auditory alerts and the light for visual cues, creating a multi-sensory warning system. This innovative approach ensures that users remain continuously aware of potential hazards, reducing anxiety and boosting confidence in their ability to navigate various settings.
The OASCB’s novelty lies not only in its multi-sensory feedback but also in its sustainable design. The device’s autonomous power management system intelligently switches between solar and battery power, ensuring reliable and uninterrupted operation.
The Best
Innovation Awards 2024
This inventive combination of comprehensive obstacle detection, multi-sensory feedback, and renewable energy usage sets the OASCB apart as a truly unique and exclusive solution in the field of assistive technology. It offers a user-friendly and eco-friendly design that is both functional and comfortable, making it an essential tool for enhancing the lives of visually impaired individuals. The inventive steps integrated into this cap—from 360-degree coverage and tactile feedback to sustainable power management—highlight its potential to revolutionize assistive devices and provide unparalleled support to those in need.
The Best Innovation Awards 2024 was not the first time that Ahamed has been felicitated for his creativity. The OASCB was recognised for the first time at a local innovation competition held in Colombo at school level.
“I would never forget that episode. I felt a deep sense of accomplishment- not just for myself, but for the entire visually impaired community too – when I stood on stage holding the award. The accolade wasn’t just a validation of my hard work. It was a symbol of hope that this device could make a real difference in people’s lives. It marked the beginning of a journey that has taken me to various platforms, each time reinforcing my commitment to this cause,” Ahamed said.
He said that the response he had gotten from the visually impaired community for the device has been extremely positive and deeply moving.
More than just a device
“Seeing the hopes on their faces, hearing their words of gratitude, and knowing that something I created is capable of helping them navigate life with more ease and confidence touched me. For many, the smart cap solution has become more than just a device. It’s a source of empowerment. Their positive reception has fueled my passion even further, driving me to continue improving the cap and expanding its reach. Every word of inspiration and every expression of joy reinforces my belief that this journey is worth every challenge and obstacle,” he said.
Apart from excelling in creativity and innovation as well as academics, Ahamed is also involved with extra co-curricular activities at school. He plays pivotal roles in the school’s Young Inventor Club and Astronomy Club. He is into sports like karate and athletics. He is also a member of the Gavel Club and debating team. He has developed leadership and survival skills through scouting.
Ahamed comes from a family of five. His father is Head of Business Development and a Chartered Marketer while his mother is an NLP Practitioner. His brother is studying Accountancy and holds an international black belt in karate, while his sister, who is in the bio stream, also shares that same martial arts distinction. Ahamed is the youngest in the family.
Family, greatest strength
“My family has always encouraged me to pursue my dreams. My parents are my biggest cheerleaders and have always instilled the importance of following my passions. I share a close bond with my siblings and their achievements inspire me daily,” he said.
Ahamed has been a Royalist from grade one and attributes his achievements to his family and school. He said that both parties have been guiding and moulding him to become the person he has evolved into today.
“My ambition is to research concepts and solutions that make a real difference in people’s lives. I want to be an innovator who not only develops concepts and solutions but also uses them to address social issues and improve the quality of life for those in need. I dream of a world where no one is left behind due to physical limitations or societal barriers. My journey as a young innovator is just a humble one, and I am keen to use my skills, knowledge, and passion to bring about positive change in the world,” he expressed.
Ahamed is currently mapping out a device which aims to improve the lives of the elderly.
“This potential new device is designed to assist them with daily tasks, helping them maintain their independence while staying connected with their loved ones. The idea came from observing the challenges faced by the elderly in the community, and I am keen to develop a solution that can make their lives easier and more fulfilling. Like the innovative smart cap, this concept is driven by empathy and a desire to make a positive impact,” he said.
His message to youth who wish to engage in similar innovative solutions is to follow their heart.
“If you see a problem that touches you deeply, don’t just look away. Ask yourself how you can solve it. Innovation is not just about creating something new. It’s about making a difference. Don’t be afraid to take risks, and don’t be discouraged by failures. Each setback is a lesson that brings you one step closer to success. Remember, the world needs your ideas, your creativity, and your passion. You have the power to change lives!” he said.
