Aga Khan Higher Secondary School, Karachi students triumph in the Prime Minister's National Innovation Award
Hafsa Khalid and Zonera Irfan, Grade 12 students from the Aga Khan Higher Secondary School (AKHSS), Karachi, were selected to participate in the Prime Minister's National Innovation Award (PMNIA) 2023.
The PMNIA is an initiative of the Prime Minister's Youth Programme by the Higher Education Commission, Islamabad. It provides an opportunity for Pakistani youth between the age of 15 to 30 to propose innovative ideas to receive funding and technical support to transform their ideas into a business.
The initiative gathers the best innovative and cutting-edge ideas from all over Pakistan. In 2023, more than 12,000 applicants pitched ideas, of which around 250 were selected for the final competition. Participants of the competition are requested to think of new digital, technical, governance and social ideas that could motivate the youth to use their innovative and novel skills to help society and the country's economy at the national level.
Zonera's project focused on developing sustainable fabric, while Hafsa created handmade handicrafts. They both began their journey with a five-day bootcamp at the Institute of Business Administration, Karachi then travelled to Islamabad to participate in the national level competition.
Hafsa’s idea was selected among the top 50 awards nationwide and received a cash prize of half a million Pakistani rupees. Hafsa’s achievement is a testament to her hard work and dedication, and the guidance provided by her teacher, Ms Nazleen.
"I'm truly honoured by the recognition in the Prime Minister's National Innovation Award, an experience that felt surreal,” Hafsa said. “Presenting my project amidst inspiring ideas nationwide was humbling. The journey, supported by the Aga Khan Higher Secondary School, Karachi, has been transformative. This accomplishment reinforces my belief in the potential of innovation for a brighter future. I am grateful for the opportunity and excited for what lies ahead."
In addition to providing a platform for young people to present their innovative ideas, the PMNIA also enables the participants to network and interact with individuals from diverse backgrounds across Pakistan.
Congratulations to Hafsa and Zonera for this remarkable achievement!
Photos (top to bottom):
- Hafsa accepting her award.
- A winners photo.
- Attendees upstanding for the National Anthem.
