Seventh-grader from Karachi develops smart stick to help visually impaired

Radhe Krishna’s device warns of obstacles through sound, vibration, he plans GPS upgrade for audio navigation

A seventh-grade student has developed a smart stick for visually impaired individuals that alerts users of obstacles through sound and vibration. The invention was showcased at the Bachaapreneur competition held at the National Incubation Centre in Karachi.

Radhe Krishna, who has been interested in robotics since Grade 5, told The Express Tribune that he was inspired by a video on social media. "I researched, built several prototypes, and this is my latest version," he said.

The smart stick can sense obstacles within a three-foot range, with the warning beep becoming faster as objects get closer. Unlike a regular white cane priced between Rs2,200 and Rs2,500, Radhe has priced his device at Rs15,000. It is rechargeable and can be powered through a simple plug-in charger.

"The box attached to the stick isn't available in the market, I built it myself. The buzzer, vibrator and all the connections are self-designed," Radhe explained, adding that he researched components independently and assembled a custom kit.

The young inventor plans to make the stick more advanced. "My next target is to include GPS so that it can guide users through audio navigation. I also want to reduce the size of the box and make it better balanced. Right now, it mostly detects upper-level obstacles, but I'll upgrade it to detect those on the ground as well".

Read: NED students showcase AI, IoT innovations for a better future

The competition drew young entrepreneurs who presented their ideas with clarity, innovation and confidence. Three of the best ideas were awarded cash prizes, while three selected winners earned the opportunity to have their products placed in major retail stores.

Another notable participant was Muhammad Abbas Burhanuddin, a seventh-grader from the Bohra community, who presented BrainVita Kits – a mixture of more than 20 seeds suitable for all age groups. "This is actually a business started by my grandmother. I'm here to raise awareness so that people know what it is and how beneficial it can be," he said.

Judge Fazal Ahmed Siddiqui praised the participants, terming their ideas remarkable and their confidence exceptional. Fellow judge Sehrish Rehan said such programmes help build confidence and provide children with much-needed platforms to explore diverse ideas.

The event was organised with support from the LUMS Centre for Entrepreneurship, NIC Islamabad and NIC Hyderabad, to encourage children to engage early with entrepreneurship and technology.