University of Doha for Science and Technology (UDST) has signed a technology support contract with Be My Sense, an AI-powered accessibility startup founded by its own students. The deal formalizes the university’s backing for the startup, which emerged from its on-campus incubation center, UHUB, providing resources for its technical development and market launch.
Quick Facts
- UDST provides tech support to student-founded startup.
- Be My Sense is an AI platform for the deaf.
- Startup won at the Huawei ICT Competition Global Final.
- Grew out of UDST’s on-campus incubator, UHUB.
From Global Competition to Local Support
Be My Sense was developed by students Mohamed Ali and Ahmed El Abed under the mentorship of Dr. Wagdi Alrawagfeh from the College of Computing and Information Technology. The startup is the commercial evolution of an award-winning project that secured second place in the Innovation Track at the Huawei ICT Competition 2024–2025 Global Final in China, where the team represented Qatar.
The new contract with UDST provides a formal structure for the university to support the startup’s next phase, focusing on product scalability and go-to-market strategy.
Mohamed Ali, co-founder and Chief Technology Officer of Be My Sense, commented on the journey. “The signing of this contract is a major milestone for us as a startup. What began as a university project has evolved into a solution with real-world impact, thanks to the continuous support and guidance we received at UDST. The hands-on learning experience played a crucial role in helping us develop our idea and prepare it for the next stage.”
AI-Powered Accessibility for the Deaf Community
The startup is building an inclusive, AI-driven platform designed to assist deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals. Its solution incorporates real-time translation, smart wearables, and digital assistance to break down communication barriers in educational, professional, and public settings. The core mission is to leverage technology for greater accessibility and social impact.
Fostering Innovation in Qatar’s Academic Ecosystem
This agreement highlights a growing trend of academic institutions in the region taking a more active role in commercializing student-led innovation. By providing structured support, UDST aims to bridge the gap between academic knowledge and practical, real-world applications, contributing directly to Qatar’s knowledge-based economy.
Dr. Salem Al-Naemi, President of UDST, said: “The signing of this contract reflects our strong commitment to empowering our students and supporting their entrepreneurial journeys. At UDST, we believe that innovation thrives when students are given the opportunity to apply their knowledge in meaningful ways. ‘Be My Sense’ is a testament to the impact of applied learning, where ideas developed in the classroom evolve into solutions that serve society and address real challenges.”
He added, “We take great pride in seeing our students grow into innovators and entrepreneurs who contribute to shaping a more inclusive and technologically advanced future. Through initiatives such as UHUB, we continue to provide the support, mentorship, and resources needed to help our students turn their ambitions into successful ventures.”
About Be My Sense
Founded by UDST students Mohamed Ali and Ahmed El Abed, Be My Sense is an early-stage startup developing an AI-powered platform to empower deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals. Its solution integrates real-time translation and smart wearables to improve communication accessibility.
About University of Doha for Science and Technology
University of Doha for Science and Technology (UDST) is Qatar’s first national university specializing in academic, applied, technical, and professional education. UDST offers 80 bachelor’s and master’s degree programs, diplomas, and certificates across its five colleges: the College of Business, the College of Computing and Information Technology, the College of Engineering and Technology, the College of Health Sciences, and the College of General Education.
Source: Zawya
