MAKKAH: Two Saudi citizens were awarded prestigious medals for their groundbreaking work at the Indonesia Inventors Day 2024 exhibition, which was held from Aug. 28 to 31 in Bali, Indonesia.
Rafeef Ayedh Alshahrani, a researcher from King Khalid University, won a gold medal for her innovation “AirEco,” which has the ability to detect and locate living beings in hard-to-reach mountainous terrain, where search efforts are typically hindered by challenging conditions.
By integrating advanced detection technologies with artificial intelligence, the device provides crucial support to rescue teams. It not only identifies precise locations but also executes functions to assist in rescue operations once the target is located.
It is one of the projects backed by the university’s Agency for Business and Community Partnership, through the Entrepreneurship Center.
The project has also earned four prestigious awards from Taiwan, Romania, Hong Kong and Thailand.
Reflecting on her achievement, she described it as a truly unique and fulfilling experience. She expressed the joy of seeing the fruits of her hard work over the past days and months, stating that the greatest reward was the pride and recognition from those around her. “It’s an incredible feeling,” she said.
“This accomplishment has fueled my desire to see it implemented quickly and made widely available,” she added. “I sincerely hope that authorities and companies will adopt the project, provide support, and help manufacture it to the highest standards so it can fully achieve its purpose.”
When asked how such achievements can positively influence Saudi participation in international competitions, she said: “Accomplishments serve as a powerful driving force for young people, pushing them toward their ambitions and future goals.
“The Kingdom’s Vision 2030, in particular, has become a major source of motivation, inspiring all Saudis to think creatively and pursue their aspirations.
“Saudi achievements have now become a source of national pride, shifting perspectives on the significance of success and its far-reaching impact. These accomplishments are key drivers of development, progress and prosperity.
“Beyond boosting individual self-confidence, they foster a positive mindset in society, encouraging leadership, innovation and the creation of economic opportunities. The impact of success doesn’t stop with the individual; it resonates throughout the community.”
Dr. Najia Al-Zanbagi, headmaster of Highly Innovative Unique Foundation, also earned a silver medal at the Indonesia Inventors Day 2024 for her remarkable work in medical parasitology.
“My contribution was a personal achievement: I authored a book on medical parasitology, using engaging, narrative-driven stories to simplify the complex scientific content and make it easier for learners to distinguish between various parasites.
“I first introduced this approach while teaching at King Abdulaziz University, and it was incredibly well received by students, who found the subject much more enjoyable and accessible.”
She aid that the book, titled “Lisan Al-Hal,” has now been published and is now available in the market.
Dr. Majid Al-Aziman, director of the Entrepreneurship Center at King Khalid University, emphasized the university’s commitment to supporting innovators, raising awareness and redefining the concept of entrepreneurship.
The university also seeks to spotlight the success of projects incubated by the Entrepreneurship Center and actively contribute to creating new job opportunities.
