To inspire children and teenagers in robotics and STEAM education, Space Innovation Camp and BRAC University jointly organized one of the country’s largest robotics competitions, “Creative Juniors Presents Robo Kickers – National Soccer Bot Championship for Kids.”
On Saturday, September 13, the grand finale was held at BRAC University’s multipurpose hall. After a day-long exciting competition, trophies were handed over to the winners.
More than 30 schools across the country participated in the competition. In the 6–10 years and 11–13 years’ categories, more than 50 teams took part in the knockout-format contest. A remarkable aspect was that each participant built their own soccer bot with the help of their mentors and gained practical knowledge of robotics through participation in the game.
The prize winners were in the 6–10 years’ category, from Aga Khan Academy, the 2nd runner-up was Team Stellar Strikers, team members Ahmed Aidan Abdullah and Ahmed Alee Ibad. The runner-up was Team Speedy Circuits, team member AfrazRahgir. The champion was Team Tech Titan, team member Erwin Tanim.
In the 11–13 years category, the 2nd runner-up was Team Robot Runners from Navy Anchorage School & College Dhaka, team member Zharif Mahmud. The runner-up was Team Robo Cubsfrom South Bridge School, team member MinalMahit Chowdhury. The champion was Team Neural Network, team members Arshan Arooshfrom Ideal School & College and Rishan Ahmedfrom Oxford International School.
At the closing ceremony, the chief guest was BRAC University Treasurer Ariful Islam. He said,
“Robo Kickers is a groundbreaking and unique initiative for children and teenagers. It is not only a competition, but through hands-on learning they are acquiring knowledge of technology, creativity, innovative thinking, and the values of teamwork. Such initiatives will help them grow into future scientists and innovators.”
Special guest, Chairman of Creative Business Group, Monir Hosen said,“Today’s event proves that if given the opportunity, Bangladeshi children can become world-class innovators. We always try to support such educational initiatives, as they help in the intellectual development of our children.”
President of Space Innovation Camp, Ariful Hasan Opu said,“Robo Kickers is not just a competition, it is a new horizon for children. Here, they are learning technology through play, discovering creativity, and learning to move forward as a team. Our goal is to inspire the next generation with innovative thinking. For this, we are working to reach children across the country to inspire their dreams and give them the strength to achieve them.”
In the closing ceremony, champion, runner-up, and 2nd runner-up trophies were handed over to the winners. At the same time, certificates and medals were awarded to all participants.
The event was supported by partners BRAC Kumon Limited, BRAC University Robotics Club, Scientfly, Exon Host, Leadswin, Robodemy, and storytelling partner Enigma TV.