HerLens, fostered startup of the Directorate of Innovation and Science Techno Park (DISTP) of Universitas Indonesia (UI), received an award at the US-ASEAN Science, Technology, and Innovation Cooperation (STIC) Program event. HerLens won the STIC Business Venture Seed Grant held by the US Department of State, US-ASEAN Smart Cities Partnership (USASCP), Arizona State University, and Rochester Institute of Technology. HerLens is a pioneer in the development of innovative solutions for the prevention of cervical cancer using Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology to detect the disease with an accuracy rate of 80%. In addition, HerLens ensures inclusive access for all women, so that every woman has the same chance to detect and prevent cervical cancer from an early stage. HerLens was established by Muhammad Naufal Nabiel dan Jihan Alfiyyah Munajat, a student of the Faculty of Computer Science (Fasilkom) UI.
For the achievement announced on Friday, July 19, at the Crowne Plaza, Vientiane, Laos, HerLens received a grant of $12,500. The grant was aimed at the development of mobile applications using artificial intelligence to improve the accuracy of the VIA test (Visual Inspection with Acetic Acid) in the early detection of cervical cancer in Indonesia. The Director of Innovation and Science Techno Park, Ahmad Gamal., S.Ars., M.Si., MUP., Ph.D. conveyed, “Herlens focuses on the field of AI applications enabling this startup to grow scalably and aggressively. The support of DISTP is ongoing, not just helping HerLens to validate products, market, and business model, but if needed also accelerate business by exposing it to the startup and global investor ecosystem.”
The application developed by HerLens is not only facilitated with AI technology, but also direction from Dr. dr. Gatot Purwoto, SpOG(K), MPH, as well as a team of doctors from the Department of Oncology and Gynecology RSCM-FKUI. The involvement of medical experts ensures that the technology carried by HerLens has a strong scientific basis and is relevant to the needs of the public, especially in areas with limited access to health facilities.
HerLens started with participation in the Apple Developer Academy Indonesia and is now part of the Problem Solution Fit scheme in the UI Incubate program managed by DISTP UI. This shows their commitment to developing technological solutions that are beneficial and can be implemented widely and increase the life quality of Indonesian society.
HerLens’ win in this International competition not only raised UI’s good name, but also demonstrated the great potential of local technology in improving health services in developing countries. “By continuously improving and implementing technology, HerLens is hoped to provide a significant contribution in the prevention and early detection efforts for cervical cancer in Indonesia, as well as bring positive impacts for the public,” said Naufal Nabil, one of the founders of HerLens.
