Jakarta, INTI – Amid the ever-evolving digital landscape, a group of students from the University of Indonesia (UI) has created an innovation that is not only technologically advanced but also deeply humane. Through an interactive game called NeuroBuddy, they introduced a breakthrough based on artificial intelligence (AI) that can help detect early signs of neurodivergent conditions such as ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder), dyslexia, and even autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
Thanks to this innovation, the team, known as “The Leporidaes”, won the grand prize at the Microsoft AI for Accessibility Hackathon 2025, outperforming dozens of other teams from various campuses and institutions.
A Cute Game with Sophisticated Technology Behind It
At first glance, NeuroBuddy looks like a simple children’s game. Kids interact and play with an adorable virtual rabbit character. However, behind its child-friendly design lies advanced AI algorithms. Every behavior and response from the player is analyzed using Microsoft Azure Cognitive Services to identify early patterns of learning and behavioral challenges.
This approach makes early detection more inclusive, enjoyable, and most importantly free of stigma. Children don’t feel like they are being tested or observed; they simply feel like they’re playing a fun game.
From Hackathon Stage to a New Ray of Hope
The AI for Accessibility Hackathon 2025 was more than just a competition it served as a platform to generate real-world solutions for vulnerable communities. In this prestigious event, the UI team competed against 45 other teams, including strong contenders like “UINNOVATORS”, who won second place with Pintaru, an adaptive digital book designed for dyslexic readers, capable of adjusting font size and spacing to suit individual needs.
According to Dharma Simorangkir, President Director of Microsoft Indonesia, innovations like this prove that technology can answer the call for greater inclusivity.
“Many innovations, including AI, stem from the desire to solve accessibility challenges. This is proof of that mission,” he stated.
Young Innovators as Drivers of Meaningful Solutions
The UI students’ victory underscores a crucial shift: today’s young generation is no longer just consuming technology, they are actively shaping solutions that matter.
Dean of the Faculty of Engineering at UI, Prof. Kemas Ridwan Kurniawan, praised the students’ creativity and dedication.
“We believe that innovations like NeuroBuddy can spark positive change toward a more inclusive and equitable world,” he said.
Where Technology, Empathy, and the Future Intersect
NeuroBuddy is more than a tech product, it is a symbol of compassion powered by intelligence. This innovation serves as a powerful reminder that true digital progress lies in using technology to bridge social gaps.
From the minds of young students comes a new hope: a future where children with special needs are identified earlier, supported better, and never left behind.
Conclusion:
The NeuroBuddy innovation developed by students from the University of Indonesia proves that technology is not just about sophistication, but also about empathy and inclusivity. By leveraging AI in the form of a child-friendly game, they successfully created an early detection tool for conditions such as ADHD and dyslexia delivered in a way that is effective and free from stigma. Their achievement also highlights the immense potential of today’s youth as changemakers through the power of technology.
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