Hoboken High School Student Earns Third Place in Congressional App Challenge
Junior Jai Malik Creates an innovative app, MicrotiAI, an AI-powered voice assistant
Hoboken, NJ, —(Wednesday, January 14, 2026) Hoboken High School proudly congratulates junior Jai Malik on earning Third Place in the Congressional App Challenge for his innovative app, MicrotiAI, an AI-powered voice assistant and resource platform designed to support individuals with microtia.
The Congressional App Challenge was established in 2013 by leaders in the U.S. House of Representatives in partnership with the Internet Education Foundation to promote interest in computer science and STEM careers. That same year, House Resolution 77 – the Academic Competition Resolution of 2013 – passed with overwhelming bipartisan support, underscoring the national commitment to inspiring the next generation of innovators.
Jai’s award-winning app, MicrotiAI, was inspired by his personal experience being born with microtia, a rare congenital condition characterized by an underdeveloped outer ear and often accompanied by conductive hearing loss. Drawing from both research and lived experience, Jai set out to create a centralized, accessible platform to address the informational, emotional, and social challenges faced by individuals with microtia.
MicrotiAI consists of two integrated components:
- An informational website that explains microtia, its grades of severity, treatment options, and psychological impacts, while also compiling resources such as specialized treatment centers in the tri-state area, online support communities, nonprofit organizations, and financial assistance programs.
- An interactive AI voice assistant built on a custom dataset that includes information on 12 specialized hospitals, 12 support communities, and 10 financial assistance programs. The assistant delivers accurate, personalized responses and connects users directly to relevant resources.
Beyond information, MicrotiAI addresses the often-overlooked social and emotional impacts of microtia. The voice assistant allows users to practice real-world conversations in a safe, supportive environment, helping them build confidence and reduce social anxiety. Users can rehearse scenarios such as explaining their condition to others, responding to questions, or discussing accommodations in professional settings, and receive constructive feedback to strengthen communication skills.
Jai’s research also highlighted the financial barriers many families face when seeking treatment, including reconstructive surgery or bone-anchored hearing aids, which are often costly and not consistently covered by insurance. By offering free access to tailored support and resources, MicrotiAI helps bridge gaps in care and information for an underserved community.
“After all, a hearing impairment shouldn’t keep you from being heard,” Jai shared.
Hoboken High School commends Jai Malik for his achievement and applauds all students who participated in the Congressional App Challenge. Their creativity, empathy, and commitment to using technology for social good exemplify the power of student innovation to build a better future.
You can view Jai’s app's demonstration video linked here, which was submitted for judging.