The University of Peshawar recently became the center of technological innovation for public health as it hosted the Digital Innovation Challenge 2025 — Hand Washing Hero at its Business Incubation Center. The event brought together young minds from across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to tackle critical issues of cleanliness and water conservation through digital solutions.
Collaborative Effort for Public Health
The competition was organized through a joint partnership between the Local Council Board's Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Water and Sanitation (WatSan) Cell and WaterAid, working closely with student societies from the University of Peshawar. The primary objective was to engage youth in addressing public health challenges through creative thinking and digital tools.
Dr. Naeem Qazi, Pro-Vice Chancellor of the University of Peshawar, graced the event as chief guest and expressed his admiration for the students' innovative approaches. "The ideas and innovations of young people play a crucial role in bringing positive change to society," Dr. Qazi emphasized, adding that the university consistently supports research-based initiatives that contribute to social and environmental progress.
Eight Universities Compete with Digital Solutions
Participants from eight universities across the province demonstrated their technical skills and creative thinking:
- Abasyn University Peshawar
- City University Peshawar
- Khushal Khan Khattak University Karak
- Institute of Management Sciences Peshawar
- Khyber Medical University
- University of Buner
- University of Peshawar (host institution)
Students presented various digital innovations, including mobile applications and awareness campaign concepts focused on promoting handwashing, water conservation, and overall public health improvement. The audience and judging panel responded enthusiastically to these creative projects.
Recognition and Environmental Message
After careful deliberation by the expert judging panel comprising Toheed Bibi (WASH sector), Farhanullah Khalil (media), and Sadiq Jan (information technology), the winners were announced:
- First Place: University of Buner
- Second Place: Abasyn University Peshawar
- Third Place: City University Peshawar
The winning teams received shields and certificates acknowledging their outstanding performance. In a symbolic gesture promoting environmental awareness, decorative plant pots were distributed among judges and guests at the conclusion of the event.
Imran Ullah, Assistant Coordinator of WatSan Cell, confirmed that similar collaborative initiatives with youth would continue under the Local Council Board Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to enhance water and sanitation services throughout the province.
Organizers highlighted that such innovation challenges serve dual purposes: they help polish students' technical and creative skills while inspiring them to take practical initiatives for community development and environmental improvement. The event successfully demonstrated how digital technology can be harnessed to address critical public health issues in Pakistan.
