Umm al-qura: Umm Al-Qura University achieved a new international milestone after winning a gold and a silver medal at the International Invention, Innovation, and Technology Exhibition (ITEX) 2026. The university's innovations reflected the advancement of its research and innovation ecosystem and its ability to deliver practical technological solutions that benefit people and society.

According to Saudi Press Agency, the smart medical device 'DiaStep Guard' won the gold medal. The innovation functions as a portable mini-clinic for the early detection and monitoring of diabetic foot ulcers and wounds while helping accelerate recovery through an innovative environmentally friendly design.

The silver medal went to 'Blink to Speak,' a communication system based on eye blinks using infrared technology and Morse code to help people with disabilities or speech impairments communicate through innovative technological means. The innovation was presented by student Khaled Al-Ghanmi from the College of Engineering and Architecture.