FGC Team India to Compete in FIRST Global Challenge 2024, a Robotics Event in Athens from Sept 26-29
by EVENTFAQS Bureau Industry Watch | September 3, 2024 | News
FIRST Global Challenge Robotics Event Athens
Team India is set to make an impact at the FIRST Global Challenge (FGC) 2024, an international robotics competition designed to unite youth from around the world through technology and innovation. Scheduled to take place in Athens, Greece from September 26-29, 2024, this year's challenge focuses on sustainable food production, emphasizing the role of robotics in addressing critical global issues.
The FIRST Global Challenge, founded by Dean Kamen, brings together youth from over 190+ countries to tackle pressing global challenges. Supported by prominent organizations such as LAM Research, the Bezos Foundation, and MIT, the FGC encourages participants to not only engage in robotics but also contribute innovative solutions for a more sustainable future.
Team India represents a powerful narrative of collaboration. Formed from former competitors in the FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC), the team united to embark on this global mission under the mentorship of Nilesh Shah, a seasoned FIRST Robotics mentor. The team members – Aarav Shah, Aarav Gupta, Neel Mistry, Arjun Kejriwal, Sai Pranav Gandhi, Aryaman Kejriwal, Mann Parekh, Aditi Shah, Meher Chodhary, and Jayanee Shah – have diverse skills and backgrounds, contributing to a team capable of addressing the FGC’s challenge of sustainable food production.
The team successfully navigated the rigorous application process, which included a STEM challenge and multiple interviews with STEM experts. Their innovative approach led to the design of a seed sower and a cascade elevator, which will be instrumental in their robot’s performance. Their project also includes a New Technology Experience aimed at addressing banana waste management and a comprehensive social media campaign to further engage with the global community.
The sparky and sporty robotics team's commitment to STEM education extends beyond the competition. They have actively promoted STEM through high-profile events such as the Automation Expo, World Robot Olympiad (WRO), and CASCADE, and have engaged with corporate sponsors like Mahindra & Mahindra to underscore the importance of STEM education. Their successful crowdfunding campaign on Ketto and private sponsorships have further supported their mission.
The team's efforts have been recognized by the Education Department of Goa, which has officially acknowledged robotics as a sport. This recognition highlights the growing importance of robotics and STEM education in India and reflects the team's dedication to fostering a supportive ecosystem for STEM initiatives.
Team’s journey exemplifies the power of unity and collaboration in achieving excellence. With their credo of “winning hearts with winning efforts,” they inspire future innovators and demonstrate that robotics is a sport where every kid can go pro. Their story is a testament to how diverse experiences and backgrounds can converge to create meaningful change and impact the future of STEM.
Scheduled to take place in Athens, Greece from Sept 26-29, 2024, this year's challenge focuses on sustainable food production, emphasizing the role of robotics in addressing critical global issuees.