Greece’s educational robotics scene is rapidly emerging as a dynamic force reflecting the country’s commitment to fostering science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education and innovation from an early age.
From robots playing tennis to robots transferring data to the deep seabeds, Greece’s young innovators are excelling in international competitions, making a significant contribution to the country’s technological advancement and economic growth.
Greece is the host of a variety of robotics competitions and events for students of all ages. These include local and national robotics tournaments, as well as international competitions, where Greek teams can showcase their skills on a global stage. Organizations such as Eduact, WRO Hellas, and He-ro, play a significant role in promoting robotics competitions and education.
Notably, Greece will host the prestigious annual robotics championship, FIRST Global Challenge, in 2024. This was announced during a special ceremony in Washington DC that was attended by Greek Deputy Minister of Digital Governance Konstantinos Kyranakis, and the Ambassador of Greece to the US, Katerina Nassika. This prestigious event, akin to an Olympics-style competition for robotics, will bring λλλtogether teams from across the globe to showcase their innovation and problem-solving skills.
Additionally, the Minoan Robotsports Competition Global Olympiad 2024 recently took place in Crete under the auspices of the Greek Ministry of Tourism. Joint teams of adults and children, starting from age 9, designed, built, and programmed robot athletes to compete in various sports. The event brought together over 4,000 competitors from 30+ countries across Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas.
Greece’s talent in robotics is underscored by its remarkable achievements on the global stage. In the 2023 World Robot Olympiad (WRO) held in Panama, Greece emerged as a leading force, securing the 4th position worldwide and claiming the 1st spot in Europe. The Greek delegation, represented by WRO Hellas, competed with 451 teams from 90 countries under the theme “Connecting the World.”
This success is not an isolated incident but testament to Greece’s consistent performance in robotics competitions. Over the past four years, Greece has been the 3rd power globally and the 1st power in Europe in the Robotics Olympiad.
The Greek government has recognized the potential of robotics and is actively supporting the sector through various initiatives. Towards the goal for “made in Greece” robotics services and products, the “Athena” Research Center” established a new Robotics Unit, developed under the auspices of the Ministry for Development and Investments. Athena RC is the only research center in the country with an exclusive focus on Information and Communication Technologies.
Robotics isn’t just about machines; it’s about shaping our future. The impact of robotics education goes beyond technical skills; it fosters critical thinking, teamwork, and innovation among students, preparing them for the challenges of the future workforce.
This is an article taken from Greece In America, the official newsletter of the Embassy of Greece in Washington
TAGS: EDUCATION | INNOVATION | SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY
