Healthcare

In a landmark achievement for the UAE’s growing technological innovation sector, a team of Emirati students secured second place in the Huawei Tech4Good Global Competition 2025, a key component of the global "Seeds for the Future" CSR program. Competing against 12 elite international teams in Shenzhen, China, the UAE team stood out with their pioneering stroke rehabilitation device that aims to restore hand function and improve the daily independence of stroke patients.

The team, composed of seven students from United Arab Emirates University, Dubai University, and the American University in Dubai—Sultan Al Samaj, Maryam Al Dhanhani, Mona Al Qaidhi, Fatima Al Hammami, Hamad Al Marzouqi, Ali Zainal, and Ahmed Al Muhairi—was guided by Professor Wathiq Mansour, Dean of the College of Engineering and IT at the University of Dubai.

Their device integrates scanning technology, 3D printing, Bluetooth connectivity, and a mobile app, offering a comprehensive and accessible solution for stroke rehabilitation. The innovative design directly tackles key barriers in the recovery process for patients, enhancing usability and patient autonomy.

Wang Qi, Vice President of Global Government Affairs at Huawei, praised the team’s work, stating:

“We are proud of the UAE team’s outstanding accomplishment. Their project perfectly aligns with the Tech4Good mission—to leverage technology for meaningful social impact. Their innovation underscores the UAE’s global leadership in digital transformation and youth empowerment.”

The journey to the global finals began when the team clinched second place at the 2024 Tech4Good Regional Finals in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, earning them a coveted spot in the global competition.

Now entering the 3D printing and electronic testing phase, the team is refining its prototype based on feedback from healthcare professionals. They are also in discussions with the Emirates Health Services Corporation to align the device with national clinical standards and ensure patient usability.

Reflecting on the achievement, Professor Wathiq Mansour remarked:

“The UAE being recognized as one of the top two teams globally is a proud moment. Despite balancing academic demands and development efforts, the students’ perseverance and team spirit, supported by dedicated mentorship, were key to this global recognition.”

The Tech4Good competition is part of Huawei’s Seeds for the Future program, which has been active in the UAE since 2016, under the sponsorship of the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA) and the ICT Fund. The program encourages youth to explore digitalization trends and develop ICT-based solutions to real-world social challenges. Since its launch in 2008, Seeds for the Future has expanded to 141 countries, benefiting over 19,000 students worldwide.

This win marks the first time an Emirati team has placed in the global Tech4Good finals—solidifying the UAE’s commitment to scientific research, innovation, artificial intelligence, and preparing a tech-savvy generation ready to solve future challenges.

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