Three HIT Projects Win TOM Innovation Competition

Three projects from HIT Holon Institute of Technology received international recognition at the Tikkun Olam Makers (TOM) Innovation Competition. This competition focuses on developing technological solutions to improve the quality of life for people with disabilities.

Hundreds of projects from around the world participated in this year's competition, but three projects from HIT stood out and won prestigious awards. The projects were developed as part of the unique "FIXPERTS" course in the Industrial Design Department at HIT's Faculty of Design, demonstrating creativity, innovation, and a significant contribution to the community.

Special Recognition Award: "Aya's First Steps"
The "Aya's First Steps" project, created by students Shani Aharoni and Shahar Cohen, won a special recognition award for its contribution to improving mobility for children with disabilities. This development includes a unique technological solution that helps children take their first steps safely and comfortably. This is the third award for this exceptional project, which, beyond professional recognition, has enabled a young girl to walk independently for the first time in her life.

The "Aya's First Steps" project, created by students Shani Aharoni and Shahar Cohen

Grand Prize Winners: "Painting Tool Grip"
Eden Be’er and Brit Dori won the Grand Prize for their "Painting Tool Grip" project. This is a gripping tool for painting designed for individuals with physical disabilities, enabling them to comfortably and effectively hold a brush or pen, thereby freely expressing their creativity.

Eden Be’er and Brit Dori won the Grand Prize for their "Painting Tool Grip" project

Best Overall Design: "Wheelchair Accessible Baby Cot"
The "Wheelchair Accessible Baby Cot" project, developed by, Ilona Lev, won the award for best overall design. This project offers an accessible crib for parents who use wheelchairs, allowing them to care for their babies comfortably and safely.

The winning projects were developed as part of the unique "FIXPERTS" course led by Prof. Gad Charny and Dana Yichye-Shwachman, whose goal is to encourage students to design and develop solutions for people with disabilities. The course presents students with real challenges and equips them with tools to create practical and innovative solutions.

The "Wheelchair Accessible Baby Cot" project, developed by, Ilona Lev, won the award for best overall design

These projects demonstrate HIT's commitment to integrating technology and design to serve the community. The impressive achievements of the students and the success of their projects in this competition, have attracted international attention and are expected to lead to collaborations and further advancements in the field of assistive technology.