MUST was represented at Harvard University for the Mission:Brain Hackathon, which brought together over 400 brilliant minds from 42 countries. Their shared mission was to tackle pressing challenges in neurological health with groundbreaking solutions.
Among this diverse global assembly, two dedicated teams from Mbarara University of Science and Technology (MUST), proudly representing the Mission:Brain Mbarara University chapter, arrived ready to leave their mark. One team was composed of two alumni and a student: Doctors Timothy Nyanzi Charles Lugaaju and Richard Agaba, the current president of Mission:Brain MUST Chapter.
The second team included Mr. Bernard Owori, a medical student, Ms. Akankunda Elizabeth from Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology in Ghana, pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering, and Olowo Micheal from Metropolitan University Kampala, studying Computer Science.
From the moment the hackathon began, our Ugandan contingent radiated quiet determination. Hours blended into days as they meticulously shaped their ideas, fueled by passion and a clear sense of purpose. This relentless dedication proved to be the cornerstone of their success.
Against a formidable field of 80 competing teams, one of the MUST teams distinguished itself, earning a highly coveted spot among the top 10 finalists!
A Game-Changing Solution:Tension filled the atmosphere in the final pitch room as the finalists unveiled their groundbreaking innovations. However, it was the MUST team, spearheaded by Agaba Richard, the dynamic president of the Mission:Brain Mbarara University chapter, who truly captured the judges’ attention.
Their winning innovation was a brilliantly conceived, impactful solution called “Lottery of Life.” This was not just another technological marvel. “Lottery of Life” is an ingeniously designed board game aimed at addressing a critical need: educating rural communities about stroke. In many underserved areas, understanding and managing stroke remains a significant challenge. The team’s approach, combining simplicity with profound educational potential, resonated deeply with the expert panel.
The team emerged as the First Runners-Up. Agaba Richard’s team secured the prestigious title of 1st Runners-Up and was awarded a remarkable $3,000 (approximately UGX 10.6M) to further develop and implement their game-changing innovation. This substantial investment is a powerful statement of the team’s ingenuity and the vital importance of their project.
This victory transcends a mere prize; it represents a monumental achievement that will resonate far beyond the hackathon walls. It is a shining moment for Agaba Richard, a Medicine IV student, and his exceptional team, which includes himself, a dedicated medical student, and two outstanding doctors, Dr. Nyanzi Timothy Joseph and Dr. Lugaaju Charles, both recent graduates of Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Pauline Byakika-Kibwika, stated: “Their success is a source of immense pride for Mbarara University of Science and Technology, showcasing the quality of talent fostered within the programs, the dedication of mentors and the university’s commitment to impactful innovation. It is a triumphant moment for Uganda, highlighting the nation’s capacity for innovation on a global stage. Unambiguously, it is a significant win for Africa, underscoring the continent’s growing influence and invaluable contributions to medical advancements worldwide.”
The “Lottery of Life” is poised to transform lives, one engaging game session at a time!
