Peshawar
The Digital Innovation Challenge 2025 Hand Washing Hero was successfully held at the Business Incubation Center, University of Peshawar, organized under the joint collaboration of the Local Council Board’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Water and Sanitation (WatSan) Cell and WaterAid, in partnership with the student societies of the University of Peshawar.
The event aimed to raise awareness among youth about cleanliness, public health, efficient use of water, and the importance of handwashing through digital innovation and creative thinking.
The Chief Guest of the ceremony was Dr. Naeem Qazi, Pro-Vice Chancellor, University of Peshawar, who highly appreciated the students’ innovative digital ideas and creativity. Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Qazi said that the University of Peshawar always encourages creative and research-based initiatives that contribute to social and environmental betterment. He added that the ideas and innovation of the young generation play a key role in bringing positive change in society.
The panel of judges included Toheed Bibi from the WASH sector, Farhanullah Khalil from the media, and Sadiq Jan from information technology. Among the event organizers were Dr. Shaukat Ali (Science Society, University of Peshawar), Imran Ullah (Assistant Coordinator, WatSan Cell), Muhammad Younas (WASH Expert), and Dr. Noor Zada (Patron-in-Chief, University of Peshawar Student Societies).
Students from eight universities across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa participated in the challenge, including Abasyn University Peshawar, City University Peshawar, Khushal Khan Khattak University Karak, Institute of Management Sciences Peshawar, Khyber Medical University, University of Buner, and the host University of Peshawar.
Participants presented their digital innovations, applications, and awareness campaign ideas focusing on water conservation, improved handwashing practices, and public health awareness. Their creative presentations were highly appreciated by the audience.
According to the judges’ decision, University of Buner secured first position, Abasyn University Peshawar second, and City University Peshawar third position. The winning teams were awarded shields and certificates for their outstanding performance.
At the conclusion of the event, decorative plant pots were distributed among judges and guests to reinforce the message of environmental awareness and sustainability.
Speaking on the occasion, Assistant Coordinator Imran Ullah stated that under the Local Council Board Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, such collaborative initiatives with youth will continue to be promoted to improve the standards of water and sanitation services across the province.
The organizers concluded that innovation challenges like this not only polish students’ skills but also inspire them to take practical initiatives for community development and environmental improvement.
