Robotics for Good Youth Challenge to be held in March 2025

Addis Ababa, December 20, 2024 (FMC) – The upcoming Robotics for Good Youth Challenge Ethiopia, set for March 15, 2025, at the Ethiopian Science Museum, aims to empower young innovators across the nation with essential skills and knowledge in robotics and artificial intelligence. This initiative highlights Ethiopia’s commitment to youth development and technological progress, it was stated during a press conference held at the Science Museum in Addis Ababa.

The challenge will gather over 5000 promising students, educators, industry leaders, and policymakers to collaborate and address critical societal issues through innovative technologies. Participants will focus on creating robotic solutions for disaster response, environmental sustainability, healthcare, and education.

Helen Abi, AI for Good Ethiopia Project Manager, emphasized that the challenge serves not only as a platform for creativity but also as Ethiopia’s entry point to the international AI for Good Summit in Geneva, Switzerland, scheduled for July 8-11, 2025. She noted the importance of equipping Ethiopian youth to compete on a global scale and represent their country effectively.

This event, part of the global AI for Good Summit initiative led by the United Nations, aims to raise awareness about the significance of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) for Ethiopia’s future. It also seeks to enhance collaboration among educational institutions, private sectors, and governmental bodies.

During the Robotics for Good Youth Challenge, under the theme “Robotics for Disaster Response,” participants will design and present innovative robotic solutions aimed at improving disaster prevention, management, and recovery. Government officials, industry experts, and representatives from the UN will deliver keynote speeches, while students will have the opportunity to showcase their ingenious designs to judges and attendees.

Gelila Desta, from the Ministry of Innovation and Technology, underscored the ministry’s commitment to providing strategic support for the event’s success. Mengistu Wedaje, Manager of Seattle Academy, praised the challenge for its role in advancing STEM education in Ethiopia, reinforcing the country’s emerging status as a contributor to the global AI dialogue.

Solomon Bwire, AI for Good Uganda Delegate, highlighted the event’s potential for professional networking and experience sharing, which could further unlock opportunities for growth, both in Ethiopia and across the African continent.

This collaborative effort epitomizes the united drive towards technological advancement and innovation in Ethiopia’s youth, paving the way for a brighter future through robotics and AI.