
From Minecraft to Microcontrollers: A Teen Hacks Sanitation with Tech
Ammaar Ghani isn't your average 17-year-old. While many teenagers are glued to their phones, Ammaar is busy tinkering with microcontrollers and dreaming of solutions to real-world problems. His passion for technology, ignited during the long days of the COVID-19 lockdown, has led him on a journey of exploration and invention, culminating in a groundbreaking creation – the Human Sanitation System (HSS).
A Spark Ignited: From Scratch to Superhero
"It all started back in 2021," Ammaar explains, his eyes lighting up with enthusiasm. "With nothing much to do during the lockdowns, I jumped on the Scratch programming bandwagon. It was fun, but I craved something more."
This insatiable curiosity led Ammaar to workshops by SLASSCOM TECHKIDS, where he honed his skills and even bagged a few awards. He then delved deeper, taking a full course with the renowned Niranjan Meegammana and emerging as a certified Scratch Grandmaster. But Ammaar's hunger for knowledge didn't stop there. He devoured courses on Micro: Bit, Web Development, app creation with MIT, and even dabbled in robotics and cybersecurity.
Beyond the Classroom: Mentorship and the Magic of Making
Ammaar acknowledges the invaluable guidance he received on his journey. "Mr. Niranjan Meegammana has been a true mentor, teaching me from the very beginning," he shares. "Shoutout to Mr. Ashraff Ameen, the master in charge of our school's Code Club, who always encouraged me to participate in tech activities."
However, the turning point came in 2022 when Ammaar started tinkering with gadgets like the BBC Micro: Bit, Arduino, and ESP. These "little superheroes," as he calls them, fueled his desire to create solutions for real-life problems. Workshops led by Mr. Migara Amithodana at Magicbit equipped him with the knowledge to translate this desire into action.
The Problem and the 'Aha' Moment
"In 2023, a conversation with a friend sparked a realization," Ammaar says, his voice turning serious. "We were discussing the major sanitation issues plaguing Sri Lanka – overflowing septic tanks, inadequate drainage systems, and the environmental impact of neglected infrastructure."
This conversation became the catalyst for Ammaar's most significant invention yet. "We realized that while everything seems to be hooked up to smart technology these days, our sanitation systems remain stuck in the past," he explains.
Birth of the HSS: From Brainstorming to Business
Ammaar, along with two friends, decided to change the game. Their creation, the Human Sanitation System (HSS), is an eco-friendly and cost-effective solution that utilizes a Magic: Bit to control a motor pump that injects special bacteria into septic tanks. These "superhero bacteria," as Ammaar likes to call them, break down waste in a matter of minutes.
The journey from concept to reality wasn't without its challenges. "Initially, it was all about cool ideas, not implementation," Ammaar admits. "Our first prototype was a basic wire and cover setup." However, everything changed when they entered the InnovateX competition, organized by the IIT Business School.
"This competition focused on turning ideas into marketable products," Ammaar explains. "It pushed us to create our own brand, 'HSS – Human Sanitation System'." They expanded their team, upgraded the system, and even built a beta website using Wix.com.
Their efforts paid off – the team secured second place and seed funding to further develop their invention. With the school administration's support, they implemented the HSS in their college's septic tank, demonstrating the technology's potential impact.
Learning from Challenges, Gearing Up for the Future
Ammaar is quick to share the lessons learned along the way. "We faced challenges like finding the right solution, managing time constraints, and dealing with limited expertise,"he acknowledges. "However, these hurdles taught us problem-solving, teamwork, and perseverance."
The project also honed Ammaar's coding, design thinking, and presentation skills. "Presenting our idea to industry experts and convincing the school board were invaluable experiences," he says. "It showed us that with the right skills and determination, we can turn ideas into reality."
Looking Ahead: A World of Possibilities
The future looks bright for Ammaar and his HSS. They're working on an upgraded version, HSS 4.0, with even more features like wireless sensor connectivity, septic tank level reports, and remote updates. Their vision extends beyond securing investors and scaling their product; they dream of a world where the HSS tackles sanitation issues globally.
Advice for Aspiring Inventors: Embrace the Journey
Ammaar has a message for aspiring inventors: "Don't be afraid to dream big and experiment relentlessly," he urges. "Look around you, identify problems that bug you, and see if technology can be your weapon of choice. It doesn't have to be complex – start tinkering with basic electronics and see where your curiosity takes you. There's a whole world of online tutorials, forums, and maker communities waiting to be explored."
He emphasizes the importance of seeking out knowledge and mentorship: "Join STEM clubs, attend workshops, connect with experts online. There's a treasure trove of information waiting to be discovered. Don't hesitate to reach out to people who inspire you – you'd be surprised how willing they might be to help a budding inventor."
But Ammaar's most crucial message is one of perseverance: "Remember, the path to invention is rarely smooth sailing. Embrace the challenges – they're stepping stones to success. Don't be discouraged by failures; every misstep is a lesson learned. The world is brimming with possibilities – keep experimenting, keep asking questions, and most importantly, keep believing in yourself and your ideas."
A Future Powered by Innovation
Ammaar Ghani's story is more than just an ingenious invention; it's a testament to the power of curiosity, collaboration, and a relentless pursuit of knowledge. As he looks towards the future, his ambitions extend far beyond the HSS.
"The world of technology is constantly evolving," he declares, his eyes gleaming with excitement. "I'm particularly fascinated by Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning. How can we teach computers to think like us? How can we leverage them to solve even bigger challenges?"
Ammaar also recognizes the growing importance of cybersecurity in our increasingly digital world. "Protecting ourselves online is crucial," he states. "Learning cybersecurity will not only safeguard myself and others but also equip me with valuable skills in today's job market."
His thirst for knowledge extends to the very core of computing – computer science. "Whether it's coding, software development, or understanding the intricate workings of computers, there's always more to learn," he enthuses.
The Final Note: A Catalyst for Change
Ammaar Ghani's story is an inspiration to young minds everywhere. It's a reminder that innovation can bloom anywhere, fueled by a spark of curiosity and a relentless drive to make a difference. As Ammaar himself concludes, "The world needs young inventors like us. We have the fresh perspectives and the technological prowess to tackle the challenges of tomorrow. Let's join forces, keep innovating, and build a future brimming with groundbreaking solutions."
This interview with Ammaar Ghani is a glimpse into the mind of a young innovator who is poised to make a significant impact on the world. His story is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and the unwavering belief that even the most complex problems can be solved with a touch of ingenuity and a whole lot of tech.
Interviewed and written by : Hafsa Rizvi