Karachi student creates Pakistan’s first AI-based Sindhi-language calculator

Mahrose's story shows that if one has the right mindset and skills, anyone can develop solutions
A snapshot of the AI-based Sindhi language calculator website interface. — sindhicalculator.com
A snapshot of the AI-based Sindhi language calculator website interface. — sindhicalculator.com

Artificial intelligence (AI) and digital technologies have transformed the way people interact with technology, but language representation is still an issue. Modern technological solutions neglect the majority of local languages, like Sindhi, making it difficult for the native population to access digital platforms.

Knowing this gap, a 16-year-old Karachi student took it upon herself. In just three days, she created Pakistan's first-ever AI Sindhi-language calculator, an innovation for Sindhi speakers who can now calculate in their native language.

Mahrose, a budding young entrepreneur from Karachi who dreams of working in technology and artificial intelligence, has developed an AI-based calculator. She is a student of Rehan Allahwala School, an AI-based school that replaces conventional books with intelligent devices and AI applications and offers students practical learning experiences.

She has a special interest in coding and graphic designing and has worked on several projects like creating websites, games, and alarm systems. Mahrose is also a promoter of skill-based education, noting that in this day and age, practical know-how is worth more than traditional degrees. Not only has she mastered coding but has also begun earning dollars since she was young, running her private channel while still in school.

Mahrose's vision behind the calculator

While talking to Gadinsider, Mahrose highlighted: "I learned graphic designing, coding, etc., from Rehan Allahwala School, which I have also practically utilised in different projects I've developed so far.”

The idea for this calculator emerged from the Culture Day celebrations. Mahrose realised that while calculators exist in English and Urdu, there were none in Sindhi. “I thought there should be a calculator in the Sindhi language as well, and that’s when I started working on it,” she shared.

Challenges during development process

Developing a project of this scale in just three days was no easy feat. “It took me three days to create this calculator, during which I faced many challenges, including selecting its design and fixing multiple errors,” Mahrose told Gadinsider.

Karachi student creates Pakistan’s first AI-based Sindhi-language calculator

She utilised various programming languages and AI technologies to build the calculator. “In the process of making it, first, I developed its website using multiple languages, including HTML, Java, and coding. Besides that, I utilised models like ChatGPT and Cloud AI. This entire calculator is based on those models. After that, I temporarily converted it into an app for seven days so that I could download it and test its functionality.”

AI Sindhi language calculator accessibility and future integrations

Mahrose’s calculator is currently available for download via a website for free. However, she has bigger aspirations for its reach. “Right now, the calculator’s website is available, from where anyone can download it. However, my main goal is to get it registered as an app on Google Play Store, which I am currently working on so that more people can download it and I can keep updating it.”

At present, the calculator performs basic mathematical operations, but Mahrose is already working on expanding its features. “Currently, this calculator only handles basic calculations such as addition, subtraction, division, and multiplication, but I am planning further integrations soon.”

Unique design inspired by Sindhi culture

Upon asking about the design of the calculator, Mahrose told Gadinsider that she paid special attention to making the calculator visually appealing and culturally relevant. “For its design, I have written every digit in the Sindhi language and kept its colour theme red and black, representing the Sindhi Ajrak theme.”

A school that encourages innovation

Rehan Allahwala School encourages innovation, and the students can learn and experiment with different technologies including AI at their own pace. Mahrose has already developed several websites, games, and alarm systems. “Previously, I have developed calculators in English and Urdu, created multiple websites, and also made games and an alarm system.”

Karachi student creates Pakistan’s first AI-based Sindhi-language calculator

This school's model of education guarantees that students develop practical skills as well as theoretical knowledge. The school's focus on learning while earning has given Mahrose the ability to be financially independent and have confidence in her abilities.

Mahrose firmly thinks that talent is worth more than degrees nowadays. She is already making dollars and running her personal channel. Her aim is to become a public speaker and encourage people to control their professional lives at an early stage.

She emphasised, “Skill development is more crucial than degrees in today’s world. I advise young people to focus on learning skills and start working immediately instead of waiting for degrees.”

Recognised for her achievements

Mahrose’s hard work has not gone unnoticed. She has been rewarded by the Russian Cultural and Science Center and won several speech contests. Her determination and creativity have not gone without appreciation from her teachers and mentors who stress that one must learn in addition to earning.

With the invention of the Sindhi-language calculator, Mahrose has made a big step toward digital inclusion. She wishes to fine-tune and develop her invention with government funding to make it more accessible. “I believe that with government support, the calculator can be commercialised for broader use,” she stated.

As she moves forward with her journey in AI and tech, Mahrose's story shows that if one has the right mindset and skills, anyone can develop solutions that impact the lives of people.