The invention by students of Dar Al-Dikr School Jeddah bagged special prize in the category of intermediate schools in Makkah province.

Speaking to Arab News, Faisal and Khaled said the vehicle aims to raise awareness among the public about taking extra care while driving, thus helping bring down traffic accidents.

According to Faisal, the invention could be instrumental in reducing traffic accidents by 70 percent. “The vehicle, featuring a system of five sensors connected with a device working on ultrasonic wave, aims at increasing traffic safety awareness among road users. The sensors fitted in front, rear and sides of the vehicle help the driver to have an idea about what was hiding from his sight, especially during night,” he said adding that the vehicle also consists of an automatic seat belt.

Faisal and Khaled noted that about 90 percent of those driving vehicles do not wear seat belts and some of them start using them only after they are involved in accidents. While describing the invention as a highly inspiring one, the forum organizers said, their invention tends to instill a passion for science in the minds of the younger generation.

Nawaf Eid Al-Dubyani from Makkah was the first prize winner in the category of secondary school students. The invention of another winner Abdul Rahman Al-Barakati from Khalediya Secondary School, Al-Laith also drew attention. His invention focused on utilizing water used in washing machines for a second time. The invention aims at giving a strong message to the public on prudent use of water in addition to alerting them against wasting scarce resources.

Among the girls, Ashwaq Faisal Al-Ajami (Makkah) and Daliya Abdul Rahman Al-Qarni have bagged first and second prizes in the category of secondary schools while Sarah Tareq Hashim (Jeddah), Lima Abdul Rahman Al-Thubaiti (Makkah) and Rima Saleh Al-Sharif (Al-Laith) won the first three prizes in the intermediate category.

Miteb Al-Hoshaibri, head of the judging panel, told Arab News that the competition has proved that there are several talented students who have innovative ideas in various branches of science. He described the inventions as a beginning of motivation for talented young scientists.

On her part, Manal Madeeni, head of the judging panel for girls and deputy chairperson for student affairs at King Abdulaziz University, appreciated the standard and originality of inventions made by the girls. “I am proud to take part in the event,” she said.

As many as 800 boys and girls from various parts of the Makkah province are taking part in the monthlong final round of the competition.