RMI Introduces Hult Prize Program To Advance Social Innovation Amongst Its Students

This past February [2025], Rehman Medical Institute (RMI) in Peshawar launched its first ever Hult Prize On-Campus Program. Supported from the outset by key academic figures – Dean Allied Health Sciences Dr. Mohammad Bin Afsar Jan, RCRS Principal Dr. Bilal Khan, and RCRS Coordinator Dr. Memoona – the program represented RMI's notable entry into the global Hult Prize movement, which prompts university students worldwide to develop enterprises addressing social issues. Campus Director Muhammad Musa initiated the Hult Prize chapter at RMI and managed the on-campus execution. The program offered students from RMC,RCD,RCN,RCAHS and RCRS an opportunity to formulate socially aware business concepts within a structured process, guiding them from initial ideation to preparedness for the final campus competition over several weeks.

The program's administration received support from two institutional entities. The RMI Marketing Department functioned as a Media and Knowledge Sponsor, widening awareness of the program, arranging mentorship access (including perspectives from Mr. Abdul Mohaimen, RMI's Business Development Coordinator), and securing media coverage for events. Concurrently, Rehman College of Rehabilitation Sciences (RCRS) contributed as a Cash and In-kind Sponsor, supplying funds for core activities such as the preparatory workshops and speaker engagements.

Participants attended a sequence of sessions conducted by recognized figures from academia, healthcare administration, and the regional business community. Campus Director Muhammad Musa began with an "Introduction to Hult Prize," explaining the competition structure. Mr. Abdul Mohaimen (Business Development Coordinator, RMI Master Trainer, & Arfa Karim Technology Incubator) offered perspectives from his own experience in "From Idea to Impact – The Entrepreneur’s Journey." Strategic business planning was the subject of a session by RMI's Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Shafeeq ur Rehman, titled "Strategic Business Architecture: Crafting Viable Ventures." Aligning ventures with global targets was the focus of Dr. M. Faisal Khalid (Assistant Director HR, RMI & PhD, HRM) in "Sustainable Development Goals in Action: Measuring and Maximizing Societal Impact." Applying new ideas practically was discussed by Mr. Sohaib Tanveer (Vice President, CECOS University & Advisory Board Member, NIC Peshawar ), who spoke on "From Concept to Implementation: Navigating Innovation and Ensuring Practical Application." Team building was considered by Dr. Faisal Khan (Director, Precision Medicine Lab & DPhil, Systems Biology, Oxford) in his presentation, "Building High-Performing Teams: Synergy, Leadership, and Flawless Execution."

Practical skill development occurred in specific workshops. Mr. Asad Raziq, a recognized Design and Visual Concepts Creator, conducted the workshop "Design Chronicles – Utilizing Graphics and Social Media for Startup Growth," which involved a practical design exercise and provided Canva Plus subscriptions to attendees. Refining the final presentation was the objective of "Mastering Your Hult Prize Pitch," directed by Mr. Abdul Mohaimen (Business Development Coordinator, RMI & Master Trainer, Arfa Karim Technology Incubator), drawing on his experience in coaching entrepreneurs. A panel discussion, "The University Nexus: Shaping the Future of Entrepreneurship," offered a platform for discussion on academia's contribution to enterprise. Hosted by Dr. Umair Wadood (Head of Physiology, RMI & CEO, Umair Wadood Pvt Ltd), the panel members included Mr. Shafeeq ur Rehman (CEO, RMI), Mr. Sohaib Tanveer (VP, CECOS University & Advisory Board Member, NIC Peshawar), Dr. Faisal Khan (Director, Precision Medicine Lab), and Dr. M. Faisal Khalid (Assistant Director HR, RMI).

The program concluded on February 26th with the On-Campus Finale. Twelve student teams presented various ventures before a judging panel comprising Mr. Shafique ur Rehman (CEO, RMI), Mr. Hassan Zaffar (Startup Community Specialist, NIC Peshawar), Mr. Salman Ahmad (Co-Founder, Peshawar 2.0 & Assistant Professor, Edwardes College Peshawar), and Dr. Umair Wadood (CEO, Umair Wadood Pvt Ltd). Following evaluation, 'Eye Ssense,' proposing camera technology for early eye disease detection, was selected as the winner, gaining eligibility to proceed in the international Hult Prize competition. The first runner-up was 'Thryve' (early childhood development delay alarm), and the second runner-up was 'Book Thrift' (online used book exchange).

Following the RMI finale, participants gained exposure to the regional incubation environment through an invitation extended by Mr. Hassan Zaffar (Startup Community Specialist, NIC Peshawar). Orientation sessions, organized and held by the National Incubation Center (NIC) Peshawar, provided further learning opportunities separate from the Hult Prize competition itself. These sessions featured guidance from Mr. Shafeeq Gigyani (Technology and Social Impact Expert) on venture development utilizing the 'Sprint' approach, and perspectives from Mr. Bilal Farooq Khan (Experienced Marketing Professional) concerning market research and presentation development. Mr. Hassan Zaffar also conducted a tour of the NIC facilities. Subsequent to this introduction arranged by NIC, and indicating the preparation levels achieved, three teams – 'Eye Ssense,' 'Doctor Tap,' and 'Recalibbrighter' – proceeded to apply for NIC Peshawar's distinct incubation program. They successfully passed the initial screening and were shortlisted for consideration for NIC Peshawar's Cohort 13. This shortlisting represents the initial stage toward potential selection, which depends on a final presentation to NIC evaluators. If accepted into the NIC program, these teams would receive access to NIC's incubation structure, mentorship, and resources intended to aid their business maturation.

RMI's inaugural Hult Prize program was effective in generating student interest in social enterprise and providing a structured environment for new venture development. By combining academic study with practical instruction, advice from experienced professionals, and introduction to Pakistan's innovation community, the institute created a pathway for students to develop their ideas toward potential application. This confirms RMI's dedication to preparing students capable of making positive contributions within Peshawar and beyond.