Aga Khan Higher Secondary School, Karachi excels at national and international science and engineering fairs
The Aga Khan Higher Secondary School (AKHSS), Karachi has once again demonstrated its commitment to nurturing scientific and engineering talent by securing remarkable victories at two major science and engineering fairs.
In January 2023, the students participated in the National Science and Engineering Fair Pakistan, in which they triumphed, making it school's nineth consecutive win. The standout project, entitled "Turning Green Waste into Energy", spearheaded by Grade 12 students Hasan Raheel and Malaika Zafar, not only clinched the “Grand Winner” title but also earned them the “Best of the Best Category” award and a “Special Mention”. Mentored by Ms Erum Jabeen, Hasan and Malaika's project ingeniously addressed the environmental challenge of green waste by transforming it into a sustainable energy source.
Four additional projects from AKHSS, Karachi received the ”Best of the Best Category” awards. These include "AI Virtual Motion Controller" by Ashmal Amirali and Shayan Atif, mentored by Mr Irfan Mujani; "A New Face of Insecticide" by Aliza Karim and Pranjal Khushi Ram, mentored by Ms Zoya Baig; "Cost-Effective Space Mining" by Syed Huzaifa, mentored by Mr Mohammad Misbahullah; and "Grass Paper" by Maryam Shah and Zoya Raza, mentored by Ms Rakshinda Aftab
The success story continued at the International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) in Dallas, Texas in May, where Hasan and Malaika’s project, now known as "Bio-Briquettes,” received global recognition. The project not only secured a special award from the King Abdul Aziz and His Companions Foundation for Giftedness and Creativity but also earned the students a $200 prize. Additionally, Hasan also won a three-week scholarship to study artificial intelligence (AI) at the Kind Saud University, Riyadh, which he attended in August.
"Embarking on this journey, we never imagined our project, 'Turning Green Waste into Energy,' would not only win accolades at our school but also stand out on the international stage,” Hasan said. “We are immensely grateful for the mentorship of Ms Erum Jabeen, who played a pivotal role in shaping our project.”
Moreover, both students were a part of “Videos for Change”, in partnership with the National Geographic, and received the “Cultivating Empathy for Earth” award.
"Bio-Briquettes," the winning project, tackles the urgent environmental issue of global warming by offering a sustainable solution. These low-cost fuel alternatives, made from agricultural waste, present a viable means of mitigating climate change effects. Hasan and Malaika's success at the international fair not only highlights their dedication and innovation but also underscores the Aga Khan Higher Secondary School, Karachi's commitment to shaping the future leaders of science and engineering.
“Receiving recognition at the International Science and Engineering Fair in Dallas for our project is a humbling experience,” Malaika said. “The journey from our local community to a global platform highlights the importance of sustainable solutions in the face of climate change. We want to express our gratitude to the AKHSS, Karachi for their unwavering support. We are excited about the potential impact of 'Bio-Briquettes' in contributing to a greener, more sustainable future."
Photos (top to bottom):
- Students with their certificates at the National Science Fair.
- Hasan and Malaika with their awards.
- Hasan showcasing his project.
