NITI Aayog Launches Youth Co:Lab National Innovation Challenge 2024

The seventh iteration of the Youth Co:Lab National Innovation Challenge for 2024–2025 has been announced by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and NITI Aayog’s Atal Innovation Mission (AIM), in partnership with Citi Foundation.

The program this year focuses on innovations that improve the well-being and possibilities of people with disabilities (PwDs).

Who Can Participate?

Young entrepreneurs, including those with impairments, are encouraged to apply for the program, which will be carried out in collaboration with the AssisTech Foundation (ATF), India's premier organization for the development of assistive technology. 

Youth Co:Lab Founded In?

Three main areas are the focus of the challenge: accessible and inclusive care models, inclusive educational technology and skill solutions, and inclusive and accessible assistive technology.

Since its 2019 launch in India, Youth Co:Lab, which was founded in 2017 as a result of a collaboration between the UNDP and Citi Foundation, has advanced significantly.

Reach of Over 19,000 People

With the help of six national theme-specific conversations, the initiative has reached over 19,000 people and assisted over 2,600 youth-led social innovation and entrepreneurship teams. 

Technological Advancements Enhancing Quality of Life

Dr. Angela Lusigi, the UNDP Resident Representative in India, highlighted the program's dedication to youth empowerment during the virtual launch, pointing out that this edition is the first time the initiative has given priority to enterprises run by and for people with disabilities. She emphasized how crucial development that is inclusive of people with disabilities is to reach the Sustainable Development Goals.

Role of AI in Disability Inclusion

The CEO and co-founder of ATF, Prateek Madhav, emphasized the revolutionary potential of new technologies in enhancing the lives of people with disabilities, pointing to examples like AI-powered mobility aids for the blind and AR/VR apps for autism education.

By utilizing these technical advancements, the partnership between ATF, UNDP, and AIM hopes to make a significant difference in the disability sector.

ALSO READ: Delhi Govt Introduces Dr. Ambedkar Samman Scholarship for Delhi Students

ALSO READ: India to Host ISSF Junior World Cup 2025: A Big Step for Indian Shooting