'Smart home' technology showcased at Techno Fest fair

Matric student develops app to control home appliances from anywhere

KARACHI:

The 'Techno Fest' fair drew huge crowds at the Expo Centre on Saturday where more than 200 stalls were set up by students from various universities and private companies to showcase their innovative technologies and projects.

A matric student introduced a 'smart home' technology which enables users to control household appliances remotely from anywhere in the world. "The system, which uses Google Assistant, allows users to control lights, air conditioners, and motors using their mobile phones," said the developer, Hafiz Muhammad Shayan.

Shayan displayed eight 50watt light bulbs, which could be turned on and off using Google Assistant voice commands. "It took me three months and Rs8,000 to develop this system with the guidance of my teachers," he added.

Participants said that if provided with real-world opportunities, they could develop robots and solutions to simplify life. The second day of 'Techno Fest' will also feature the graduation ceremony of the 'Bano Qabil' programme.

Eleven seminars were also held to promote digitalisation across all sectors, highlighting the importance of embracing technology to drive progress.

The fair provides a platform for students to showcase their talents, collaborate, and learn from experts, ultimately contributing to Pakistan's technological advancement.

While speaking at the inauguration of the event Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) President Javed Bilwani said that such fairs should have been organised by federal and provincial governments.