Maldives Set to Compete in 2024 FIRST Global Robotics Challenge

MV+ News Desk | September 25, 2024

Women in Tech Maldives presented Team Maldives, composed of five students and two mentors from Ghiyasuddin International School, as they prepare for the upcoming 2024 FIRST Global Challenge, an international robotics competition. 

This team is not only representing the nation but also advocating for the importance of STEM education in the Maldives. From 26-29 September 2024, students from over 190 countries will gather in Athens, Greece, for this robotics competition, which takes place in a different country each year. 

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FIRST Global invited each nation to assemble a team to design and program a robot that competes in a series of tasks centred around one of the greatest challenges facing our planet. This year, the challenge addresses sustainable food production—one of the defining issues of the 21st century.

The theme encourages teams to explore the obstacles and opportunities involved in providing the global population with safe, nutritious, and environmentally responsible food. Team Maldives has described their journey since being selected for the 2024 FIRST Global Challenge as exhilarating. They have had the opportunity to engage with national leaders and Olympians, such as Dheema and Mubal Azam, which has not only inspired them but also highlighted the significant role of STEM education in tackling global issues.

The students believe their education and exposure to robotics have illuminated its vast potential for the future, reinforcing their conviction that robotics is essential for addressing global challenges. They are particularly enthusiastic about advocating for robotics to be officially recognised as a sport in the Maldives, aspiring for it to gain the same respect as traditional sports due to its demands for dedication, teamwork, and strategic thinking.

This year, Team Maldives will showcase their robot, “Rihi Kakuni,” symbolising their innovation and commitment on the international stage. The competition will see robots performing tasks related to food production and resource management, with teams earning points by successfully completing challenges that mimic real-world scenarios. Participants will design their robots using a standard kit of parts and compete in collaborative matches, demonstrating both technical skills and teamwork.

The team has been working on their robot with the support of their Gold Partner, STO PLC, as well as Silver Partners Alia Maldives and BHM Trading. Women in Tech Maldives has observed how STEM education is a vital pathway to innovation, empowering young people to develop critical skills and fostering global collaboration.

Robotics is increasingly seen as a sport that demands teamwork, strategy, and dedication—qualities synonymous with traditional athletics. Advocates for robotics in the Maldives are calling for its recognition as an official sport, believing it can unite some of the brightest minds worldwide in competition and innovation.

Recap of the 2023 FIRST Global Challenge

In the previous year, a talented team from Hira School in Addu City represented the Maldives at the 2023 FIRST Global Challenge in Singapore. Competing under the theme ‘Hydrogen Horizons,’ the team focused on innovative solutions for sustainable energy, particularly hydrogen as a clean alternative. Their participation highlighted the capabilities of young Maldivian innovators on the global stage and reinforced the nation’s commitment to addressing pressing environmental challenges through STEM education.

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