Technology has often been criticized for social isolation, but 16 teams from various schools and institutions participated in the National University of Singapore-Makerthon 2020 to develop innovative solutions to eradicate social isolation from society. A device called ‘PETAL’ whose interface displays a face that reflects the emotions of plants won the first prize. While a video journalling toy called ‘Litmus Box’ that can help people to cope with depression by using AI emerged as the second winner. Another interesting solution, a virtual platform that claims to help prevent loneliness and depression among isolated elderlies won the third prize. The organizers consider these projects pathbreaking as these innovative ideas can actually benefit society.
