A group of 13 UAE pupils have scooped a top competition prize of $25,000 for designing a self-driving wheelchair for the elderly.
The design — described by the pupils as the “Tesla of wheelchairs” — aims to help people to navigate certain environments such as malls.
The pupils overcame competition from 20 schools in 14 countries to triumph in ‘Otis’ Made to Move Communities Challenge’ in the Europe, Middle East and Africa region. Otis is a global manufacturer of lifts and escalators and the theme of its challenge this year focused on mobility solutions for the ageing population.
The pupils, aged between 14 and 17, study at Gems Wellington Academy – Silicon Oasis in Dubai and their prize money will be used to improve science, technology, engineering and maths facilities at the school.
“We wanted to create a product that will help the ageing population in the UAE,” said Tarun Chandra, 17, an Indian grade 12 pupil.
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