Karachi Student Develops Smart Stick for the Visually Impaired, Earns UK Praise

The stick is equipped with two key sensors: one

at the bottom to detect water and another in the

middle to identify potholes or uneven terrain

Staff Reporter

Karachi: A young innovator from Karachi has created a smart sensor-based stick aimed at improving the mobility and safety of visually impaired individuals. The invention, developed by Mohammad Hassan—a student at the Aligarh Institute of Technology (AIT), Department of Electronics—has earned praise both locally and internationally.

Smart Technology for Everyday Challenges

The stick is equipped with two key sensors: one at the bottom to detect water and another in the middle to identify potholes or uneven terrain. These features enable the user to avoid obstacles and navigate safely, significantly reducing the risk of accidents.

Recognition from Oxford University Expert

The invention attracted international attention when Professor Dr. Selva Kumar Ramachandran of Oxford University witnessed a live demonstration during a visit to AIT last year. He hailed the smart stick as a remarkable advancement and called it a “gift for the visually impaired.” According to him, the tool’s ability to detect hazards in real-time could greatly enhance the quality of life for blind users.

Empowering the Disabled Through Innovation

Mohammad Hassan’s work highlights the growing role of young Pakistani talent in developing solutions for marginalized communities. Experts believe such innovations not only solve real-world problems but also position Pakistan as a rising contributor in the field of assistive technology.