UNM Students Create ADHD Game, Secure National Funding

Students from Universitas Nusa Mandiri (UNM) have created an innovative interactive visual novel game, MEMORion+, designed to support children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). The game, which secured national funding for the 2026 Student Creativity Program (PKM) under the "Karsa Cipta" scheme, aims to serve as a psychoeducational tool.

Led by Dini Fitriyah Herti from the Data Science program, the team also includes Guntur Surawijaya (Data Science), Rivky Putra Setiawan (Informatics), and Rizki Rasdiwiyanto (Informatics). Their project, guided by lecturer Taopik Hidayat, focuses on helping children with ADHD understand their emotions, build a stronger sense of self, increase confidence, and practice decision-making within an adaptive and educational narrative.

Herti explained that the visual novel format was chosen for its ability to offer a more personal and engaging learning experience. "Through MEMORion+, we want to provide a medium that is not only entertaining but also has a positive impact on children with ADHD, so they feel more understood, can recognize their emotions, and discover their best potential," she stated.

The team identified a gap in specialized educational media for children with ADHD, driving their innovation. By integrating digital technology and interactive storytelling, they aim to deliver educational messages effectively and enjoyably. The development process involved researching ADHD characteristics, user psychological needs, child-friendly interface design, and crafting a storyline that fosters positive emotional experiences. Player choices within the game influence the narrative and offer lessons in emotional regulation and self-identity.

Dosen pembimbing Taopik Hidayat praised the team's cross-program collaboration, which transformed their idea into a nationally recognized innovation. He highlighted that UNM students are capable of creating technologically-based solutions that are both innovative and socially impactful.

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Through MEMORion+, we want to provide a medium that is not only entertaining but also has a positive impact on children with ADHD, so they feel more understood, can recognize their emotions, and discover their best potential.