World Robot Olympiad Kicks Off in Singapore with Global Youth Competitors

The World Robot Olympiad commenced in Singapore on Wednesday, drawing hundreds of young competitors from around the globe, some as young as eight years old, to showcase their robotic solutions to practical problems.

Established in 2004 in Singapore and hosted in Turkey last year, the annual event emphasizes the vital role of technology and science in enhancing everyday life through the creativity of young innovators. This year, a total of 594 teams comprising 1,571 participants hailing from 91 nations are set to compete on Thursday and Friday under the theme "The Future of Robots." The focal point of the competition is to explore how robotics can address global challenges and contribute to improving human life, according to the event organizers.

Contestants, ranging in age from eight to 22, qualified through local and national contests to earn their places on the international stage. They are categorized by age groups to compete across various challenges.

One event requires participants to design and program robots capable of navigating a game field that changes dynamically with each round, compelling the machines to make autonomous decisions. In the "RoboSports" category, robots engage in "double tennis" matches, competing head-to-head. Another segment involves creating robotic projects aimed at solving real-world issues.

For competitors aged 14 to 22, a special challenge involves developing autonomous driving robots that can independently steer and complete a designated track.

Grace Fu, Singapore's Minister for Sustainability and the Environment, highlighted the event's significance, stating, "This year’s theme invites participants to design intelligent machines for a smarter future. Robotics is a vital growth sector for Singapore."

She added, "We are advancing technologies such as autonomous vehicles, drones for safely cleaning high-rise building exteriors, and robots supporting healthcare services."