Two students from the University of Management and Technology (UMT), Lahore, have won Rs. 1 million after securing first position in the Punjab government’s Youth Innovation Competition with their innovative approach to reducing DNA testing costs.
Fatima Azhar and Ariha Akbar, students of UMT’s Department of Life Sciences, developed a proposed method designed to make DNA testing more affordable while maintaining the quality of results.
Their project stood out among 154 submissions from 51 universities across Punjab, earning them the competition’s top position.
Students Develop Cost-Effective DNA Testing Method
The research project focuses on reducing the cost of DNA testing without compromising testing quality. If successfully developed and implemented, the method could help make DNA testing more accessible to institutions and individuals who face financial barriers.
DNA testing plays an important role in forensic investigations, identification and scientific research. Reducing its cost could potentially support wider access to testing services, although the method’s practical effectiveness will depend on further development and evaluation.
The students’ achievement highlights the potential of university research to address practical challenges through scientific innovation.
Punjab Government Shows Interest in Research
Fatima Azhar and Ariha Akbar presented their proposed method at a meeting chaired by Punjab Provincial Minister Khawaja Salman Rafique.
After reviewing their presentation, officials decided to pursue the project at the government level. The decision marks a potential next step in moving the students’ research beyond the university setting.
The initiative could provide an opportunity to assess how the proposed method might be applied in practical testing environments.
Collaboration With Punjab Forensic Science Authority
As part of the next phase, both students will collaborate with the Punjab Forensic Science Authority (PFSA) to further develop their research and explore its practical applications.
The collaboration is expected to help advance the project and assess its potential usefulness in forensic science.
Further development and evaluation will be important to determine whether the proposed approach can deliver the intended cost savings while maintaining reliable results.
Competition Featured 154 Projects From 51 Universities
The Punjab Youth Innovation Competition brought together 154 projects submitted by students from 51 universities across the province.
The participation of universities from across Punjab provided a platform for students to present research ideas and compete for recognition and financial awards.
UMT’s first-place finish highlights the work of its Life Sciences students and the potential contribution of university-based research to scientific and technological development.
The Rs. 1 million prize also recognises the students’ achievement in presenting a project focused on a practical challenge.
Encouraging Research and Student Innovation
The success of Fatima Azhar and Ariha Akbar demonstrates how student-led research can contribute ideas aimed at improving existing processes and services.
Their proposed DNA testing method now has an opportunity for further development through collaboration with PFSA and engagement with relevant government authorities.
While additional work will be needed to establish its effectiveness and real-world benefits, the project represents a notable achievement for the students and their university.
The initiative also highlights the importance of supporting young researchers, providing opportunities for scientific collaboration and encouraging students to develop solutions to practical problems.
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