The robotics team from St. Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) has made remarkable strides in the global arena of robotics. In the recently concluded 2023 First Global Challenge (FGC), held in Singapore from October 7th to 10th, the team secured an impressive 67th position out of 191 participating countries under the theme of “Hydrogen Horizons.” This achievement marks a significant improvement compared to their previous year’s performance, where they finished 80th out of 192 countries.
The success of the SVG robotics team not only reflects the growing importance of the nation in the field of robotics but also highlights the urgent need to foster and support young talent in STEM subjects. By excelling in this competition, the team has demonstrated the immense potential that lies within SVG’s educational institutions and the dedication of its students.
The First Global Challenge encouraged participants to unleash their creativity and problem-solving abilities by designing and constructing competent robots using a standard parts kit. The task also involved maneuvering the robots within a simulated environment while harnessing the power of hydrogen for energy storage, transit, and conversion.
Comprising Jair Patrick, a first-year student at SVG Community College, along with Shekinah Campbell, Daniela Duncan, Tia Gunmunro, and Nicholai Williams, all second-year students at SVGCC, the SVG robotics squad proved their mettle. Guided by their mentor Ozni Daniel, supported by Timothy Gellizeau, and led by team captain Brodlon Daniel, the dedicated students displayed exceptional teamwork and technical prowess throughout the competition.
Notably, the team’s participation in the First Global Challenge would not have been possible without the generous sponsorship from Gibsons Building Supplies, the National Lotteries Authority (NLA), St. Vincent Electricity Services (VINLEC), St. Vincent Motors Ltd, Hazel Gun-Munro, and Rhonzy’s Admin Services. The robotics team members express heartfelt gratitude to all those who made their journey to Singapore a reality, as well as for granting the aspirations of numerous young STEM students.
To celebrate their achievements, the showcased robots will be exhibited at the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Electricity Services (VINLEC) – National Science and Technology Fair in November 2023. This display will undoubtedly inspire aspiring young minds and further promote the advancements in STEM education and robotics within SVG.
FAQs
1. What is the First Global Challenge?
The First Global Challenge is an annual international robotics competition that aims to foster interest and engagement in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields among young students from around the world. Each year, participants tackle a specific theme and compete in various robotic challenges.
2. What was the theme for the 2023 First Global Challenge?
The theme for the 2023 First Global Challenge was “Hydrogen Horizons.” Participants were required to design and build robots capable of utilizing hydrogen for energy storage, transit, and conversion.
3. How did the SVG robotics team perform in the competition?
The SVG robotics team secured an impressive 67th position out of 191 participating countries in the 2023 First Global Challenge. This marked a significant improvement from their previous year’s performance, highlighting the team’s progress and determination.
4. Who sponsored the SVG robotics team’s participation in the competition?
The team’s participation was made possible through generous sponsorship from Gibsons Building Supplies, the National Lotteries Authority (NLA), St. Vincent Electricity Services (VINLEC), St. Vincent Motors Ltd, Hazel Gun-Munro, and Rhonzy’s Admin Services. The robotics team expresses their sincere gratitude to these sponsors for their support.
5. Where can the showcased robots be seen after the competition?
The robots will be displayed at the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Electricity Services (VINLEC) – National Science and Technology Fair in November 2023. This exhibition will provide an opportunity for the public to witness the achievements of the SVG robotics team and inspire future generations of young STEM enthusiasts.