WASHINGTON (Diya TV) — A 15-year-old Indian-American high school student has been awarded Intel’s prestigious Young Scientist Award for developing a low-cost knee brace which allows persons with weakened legs to walk more naturally.
Syamantak Payra, a Texas resident, was co-awarded the $50,000 grand prize with 17-year-old Kathy Liu. The two were selected during last week’s Intel International Science and Engineering Fair, which was held in Arizona. The fair featured more than 1,700 young scientists selected from 419 affiliate fairs held in 77 countries.
“Our top winners this year – Syamantak and Kathy – clearly demonstrate that age has no bearing on your ability to conduct research and come up with solutions to important problems,” said Maya Ajmera, Society for Science and Public president and chief executive.
“We congratulate them not only for their success, but on their dedication and hard work. They and the rest of the Intel ISEF finalists are the rising stars of STEM and we look forward to watching them pursue their passions and in turn make the world a better place for future generations,” Ajmera said.
“Intel congratulates this year’s winners and hopes that their work will inspire other young innovators to apply their curiosity and ingenuity to today’s global challenges,” Intel Foundation president and Intel Corporation vice president of human resources and director of corporate affairs Rosalind Hudnell said in a statement.
Payra’s brace, which is electronically-aided, tested the device on two individuals who are partially disabled by polio. Almost immediately, the brace restored a more natural gait and increased mobility.
