The University of Johannesburg (UJ) has reinforced its standing as a hub of future-focused, socially responsive innovation after students from its Faculty of Art, Design and Architecture (FADA) secured both first place and first runner-up at the prestigious AAKRUTI Global 2025 finals, held in Texas, United States, from 1 to 4 February 2026.

Competing against universities from across the world, UJ students distinguished themselves with human-centred design solutions that combine technological ingenuity with deep social empathy, addressing critical health challenges faced by mothers and children in diverse global contexts. Their success reflects the University’s commitment to innovation that responds directly to real-world needs while advancing inclusive and sustainable development.

First place was awarded to an all-female, interdepartmental honours team participating in UJ’s Wom+n in Tech initiative for Latch, a pedal-powered breast pump designed for mothers in communities where electricity and healthcare infrastructure are unreliable. Developed by honours students Rethabile Mosia (Industrial Design), Lerato Matobako (Multimedia Design), and Courtney Hodgson and Tyesha Billett (Graphic Design), the solution offers a sustainable, low-cost alternative that reduces physical strain, supports maternal health and promotes responsible consumption. Operating without electricity and compatible with standard bottles and reusable containers, Latch eliminates dependence on proprietary equipment while significantly reducing plastic waste.

Says Pia Findlay, co-ordinator of the Wom+n in Tech programme: “These achievements reflect the growing impact of FADA’s Wom+n in Tech initiative in supporting women to participate meaningfully in technology-led innovation. By creating a space for confidence, collaboration and experimentation, the initiative enables students to apply 4IR technologies and sustainable, human-centred design approaches to real-world social challenges.”

Two members of the team travelled to Texas to present the solution at the international finals, competing alongside innovators from leading institutions worldwide. 

“Imagine being a new mother in a township in South Africa or a rural village in India,” the team explained. “Your baby won’t latch, you only have a glass jar, and the electricity cuts out again. That’s the reality Latch was designed to change.” 

The team is already working towards launching Latch as a product within the next year, with plans to partner with NGOs and NPOs that support mothers in rural and underserved communities. The focus will be on local manufacturing, accessible pricing and scalable production to ensure the device reaches women who need it most.

The first runner-up position went to a team of third-year Industrial Design students for Dr Bou, a wearable, octopus-shaped device that helps reduce anxiety in children during injections through cold and vibration therapy. Designed for use in clinics, pharmacies and home healthcare settings, the project demonstrates how empathetic, child-centred design can transform medical experiences and improve emotional wellbeing during routine procedures.

Industrial Design Head of Department Martin Bolton added that the achievements demonstrated what was possible when students are empowered to think critically exemplifying UJ’s approach to developing graduates who are globally competitive, socially conscious and equipped to make a meaningful difference.

“We place strong emphasis on developing future problem solvers and innovators. The success of an all-women team at this level reflected the confidence, rigour, and capability of our designers. Achieving both first and second place among all international entries reinforces the strength of the Faculty, the University and the quality of the work that we produce.”