A promising innovation from Zetech University is set to transform security protocols in educational institutions and beyond. Francis Ng’ang’a, Zetech University student in the Electrical and Electronic Engineering program, has developed an advanced biometric security solution designed to monitor and restrict unauthorized access to campuses and other premises.
The invention, dubbed the Advanced Face Recognition System, leverages cutting-edge technology to scan individuals' faces and iris patterns to confirm their identities. This high-precision system is poised to address the growing challenge of unauthorized entry into institutions by providing a more secure alternative to traditional identification methods like student ID cards.
Ng’ang’a highlights the system's robust capabilities, noting that its sophisticated algorithms ensure accurate identification, minimizing errors commonly associated with manual checks. Additionally, the system's powerful processing capability can efficiently manage large volumes of people, enhancing convenience while significantly boosting security. By utilizing biometric data, this technology safeguards against identity theft and unauthorized access, making it an invaluable tool for institutions.
"This technology is designed to replace manual identification methods," Ng’ang’a explains. "It verifies individuals through their facial features and iris patterns, offering a more effective solution compared to conventional student ID cards."
One of the standout features of Ng’ang’a’s invention is its built-in backup system, which enables the use of alternative identification methods, such as fingerprints, in the event of a system failure. "The system can be implemented in schools where students simply scan their faces upon entry, eliminating the need for ID cards," Ng’ang’a says. "It also has potential applications in classrooms for marking attendance."
The development of this prototype involved three key phases: research and ideation, prototype development, and testing. Ng’ang’a emphasizes that the technology is still evolving and has the potential to be further enhanced with advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning. "With AI, the system can continuously improve as it learns from user interactions and feedback," he adds.
Ng’ang’a envisions widespread adoption of this technology, urging stakeholders—including schools, security organizations, and banks—to embrace the innovation to enhance their security systems. "Offices and enterprises can also benefit from this technology to prevent unauthorized access," he says. He calls for support to mass-produce the system, believing it could make a significant impact on security in educational institutions and other settings.
In addition to his technological achievements, Ng’ang’a advises fellow young innovators to familiarize themselves with copyright laws to protect their creations from theft and misuse.
Zetech University’s Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Professor Alice Njuguna, praised Ng’ang’a and other student innovators for their groundbreaking work. She highlighted the university’s commitment to fostering innovation through various support mechanisms, including a dedicated funding kitty.
"We have established the Chancellor’s Kitty to finance innovative ideas through to completion," said Professor Njuguna. "Our skilled lecturers guide these innovators, and we actively connect them with the market to ensure their technologies are absorbed by industry. This approach has positioned Zetech as a leading institution for nurturing talent and driving marketable innovations."
Ng’ang’a’s Advanced Face Recognition System stands as a testament to Zetech University’s dedication to cultivating innovation and equipping students with the tools to develop impactful solutions for the future.