Pareesa Afreen 
Nov 04, 2025
The provincial government of Sindh is planning to introduce a smart scanner stick equipped with sensors developed locally to help blind people independently and safely navigate their environments.
The biomedical engineering department at NED University has worked on this device with an aim to introduce inclusive technology in Pakistan.
The Secretary for the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, Tauha Ahmed Farooqi, said the scanner stick will be distributed free of charge as part of a pilot program later this month. More than six million individuals in Sindh have a physical or mental disability, including some people with autism.
This is a joint effort between the Sindh government and NED University, the latter of which recently signed an agreement to start producing and distributing these sticks.
Officials said more assistive technology will come forth that is locally designed to help persons with disabilities access their environments and be independent.
Other assistive devices under development
In addition to the scanner stick, several other innovations are being developed under this partnership, including:
- MindFoster: For mental wellness and sleep support
- Binaural Beats: To improve attention span
- Neurofeedback Systems: To strengthen cognitive function
- Digital Cognitive Assessment Tools: To help doctors with efficient diagnosis
- Trunk Orthosis Devices: To assist people with physical disabilities
- Floor-to-Chair Patient Lifters: For individuals with spinal injuries
- WalkAid: A mobility device for visually impaired individuals
- HerCrampEase: Medicated menstrual pads for young girls
- EasyMobility Aids: To support general mobility challenges
Farooqi confirmed that all devices, including the smart scanner stick, will be provided free of charge to eligible users across Sindh.
