In the last two months, a group of young innovators has been working on projects aimed at making life easier for people with challenges and disabilities. These projects were the result of this year’s Generation NOW program, which was organized by Hrvatski Telekom in partnership with the Institute for Youth Development and Innovation (IRIM). Over 1,500 children participated in the project and submitted 91 innovative works that aimed to improve the quality of life for those with difficulties.
The projects ranged from smart canes for the visually impaired to communication tools for those on the autism spectrum, as well as smart wheelchairs and digital solutions for immobile individuals. The submissions were divided into three age categories: first to fourth grade, fifth to eighth grade, and high school students. The top six projects from each category were presented live.
In the first to fourth grade category, “Mi to mo” from Sveti Križ Zaretje Elementary School won first place. This project included innovative solutions like a bell for deaf individuals, a window opener for immobile people, and sensors for the visually impaired. In the fifth to eighth grade category, “Smart Hand” from the Association of Technical Culture Galileo Galilei in Rovinj took home top honors. This project focused on communication for individuals with speech difficulties. In the high school category, “Let’s learn from each other” from SŠ Tehnička škola Daruvar was awarded first place. This didactic aid was designed to help with cognitive development and early learning.
The Generation NOW program aims to empower young people to actively address social issues and become part of the solution. With a focus on equal opportunities, this year’s projects highlighted how modern technologies can improve society for all. With over 650,000 people with disabilities in Croatia and a growing need for assistive technology worldwide, these students’ innovative solutions demonstrate how technology can create a more inclusive world.
The jury for this year’s program included experts in disability rights, education, and technology who recognized the importance of encouraging youth to address social challenges. By providing Internet of Things technology kits and support, the Generation NOW program has become a platform
