A team of alumni from the University of Technology Bahrain (UTB) developed an innovative Smart Wheelchair that has received national and international awards for enhancing mobility and independence for people of determination. The project demonstrates UTB’s commitment to inclusive innovation, sustainability, and student-led research with real-world impact.

Tahir Ali, Abdullah Ajaj, and Hesham Al-Awadhi designed the Smart Wheelchair as a final requirement for completing their bachelor’s degrees in Mechatronics and Informatics Engineering, responding to the growing need for intelligent mobility solutions for individuals with physical disabilities. Unlike traditional wheelchairs, their model integrates adaptive technologies to support users with varying physical capabilities, ensuring greater independence, safety, and comfort.

The engineering project has earned three major accolades, showcasing its ingenuity and relevance: First Place for Best Medical Robot in the local round of the GCC Robotics Challenge 2024 organised by the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET), Finalist recognition for Most Innovative Project at the regional GCC competition, and First Place in the Innovation and Sustainable Technology Solutions Competition hosted by Gulf University.

The smart wheelchair features three control modes tailored to user needs: joystick control for those with full hand mobility, head-movement control for individuals with limited upper-limb function, and voice-command operation for users with severe motor impairments. Additional smart features include obstacle detection, an emergency alert system with integrated GPS, and solar-powered battery charging, ensuring uninterrupted use during emergencies. The chair is built with a durable frame and ergonomic design to maximise comfort and reliability.

This award-winning project reinforces UTB’s strategic focus on applied research, sustainable technology, and inclusive design. It reflects the university’s broader alignment with Bahrain’s Economic Vision 2030, encouraging innovation that contributes to social development and the knowledge economy.

Commenting on the achievement, Dr Hasan Almulla, President of UTB, stated “We take immense pride in the creativity and dedication demonstrated by our alumni. Their Smart Wheelchair project is a clear example of how innovation can improve lives and drive positive change. At UTB, we are committed to nurturing future-ready graduates who lead with purpose and vision.”

As a leading private university in the country with a diverse learning environment, UTB continues to foster a culture that supports interdisciplinary research, industry collaboration, and technological advancement. Through initiatives like the Smart Wheelchair, UTB prepares its students to become leaders in smart, inclusive, and sustainable innovation.

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