Students Revolutionize Braille Education with Affordable Printer at Azim Premji Challenge

Bangalore: Students of DJ. Sanghvi College of Engineering, Thakur College of Engineering and Technology, Rajiv Gandhi Institute of Technology, & NMIMS (Mumbai) emerge winners in the 9th National Social Enterprise Idea Challenge organised by Azim Premji University.

In 2016, Azim Premji University launched the annual “Social Enterprise Idea Challenge” that brings students from across India to explore social entrepreneurship and share innovative social change ideas in a rigorous and competitive environment.

The event also acts as a networking platform for young minds to meet each other, exchange thoughts and showcase their talent and skills to some of the early-stage mentors and funders.

Fifteen teams were shortlisted from over 270 entries from universities and colleges across the country for the final round. The submissions were broadly in the domains of education, livelihood, health, sustainability and governance.

First prize: Students from DJ. Sanghvi College of Engineering, Thakur College of Engineering and Technology, Rajiv Gandhi Institute of Technology, & NMIMS (Mumbai)

Summary of the idea: Drishti is an affordable, portable braille printer designed to overcome the high cost and bulkiness of existing devices, which limit access for visually impaired students in India.

Using a patented “double rack single pinion” mechanism with stepper motors, it cuts production costs by 90%, pricing at just ₹1500–2000. Compact and scalable, Drishti prints braille strips, democratizing access to education and revolutionizing braille literacy for underserved communities.

Second prize: Students from Azim Premji University, Modern College of Arts, Science and Commerce, (Ganeshkhind), Modern College of Arts, Science and Commerce (Pune), Fergusson College (Pune)

Summary of the Idea: Work4U Services – Young Hands, Wise Hearts is a social enterprise that connects rural students studying in cities with senior citizens who need everyday assistance like caregiving, reading, tutoring, yoga, or basic tech help. Inspired by the “Earn and Learn” model, it creates dignified part-time opportunities that help students support their education while building skills and confidence.

At the same time, elders gain companionship and reliable care, fostering intergenerational bonds and improving the quality of life for both.

Third Prize: Jointly by students of IIM Jammu and Mewar University

Nazrul Haque, Mentor for the Social Enterprise Cell at Azim Premji University, noted: “This challenge represents the spirit of change — where ideas meet purpose.

Our youth have immense potential to design enterprises that redefine how we tackle social and environmental challenges. Listening to these passionate teams remind us that the future of impact is in innovation with heart.”