AI for Good stories

Join the Global Movement: Robotics for Good Youth Challenge

Registration dates at the endAre you passionate about technology and eager to make a real difference in the world? The Robotics for Good Youth Challenge is your opportunity to turn that passion into action!

by Alexandra Bustos Iliescu

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Registration dates at the end

Are you passionate about technology and eager to make a real difference in the world? The Robotics for Good Youth Challenge is your opportunity to turn that passion into action! This global competition, inspired by the United Nations’ mission to address global challenges, invites young innovators from every corner of the globe to design, build, and program robots that can tackle one of the most pressing issues of our time: disaster response.

Hosted in multiple countries, the Robotics for Good Youth Challenge is more than just a competition—it’s a global movement. By participating, you’ll be part of an extraordinary journey where your creativity and technical skills can help advance the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) and SDG 11 (Sustainable Citites and Communitites).

Why Focus on Disaster Response?

Disasters—whether natural, like earthquakes and floods, or human-made, such as industrial accidents—pose significant threats to communities worldwide. Effective disaster response is crucial in saving lives, protecting infrastructure, and ensuring that essential services continue to function in the aftermath of a crisis. By developing robotic solutions for disaster response, you’re not just learning cutting-edge technology; you’re contributing to building a safer, more resilient world.

  • SDG 4: Quality Education – Through this challenge, you’ll gain hands-on experience in robotics, coding, and problem-solving, all of which are critical skills for the future. The competition fosters an environment where learning is inclusive and accessible to all, regardless of gender, socio-economic status, or academic background. By engaging with this challenge, you’re helping to promote quality education, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to learn and grow, even in the face of global challenges.
  • SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure – Innovation is at the heart of this competition. You’ll be tasked with creating robots that can support critical infrastructure during disasters, from maintaining communication networks to aiding in rescue operations. Your innovations could lead to the development of more resilient infrastructure, capable of withstanding future crises, and contribute to sustainable industrialization.
  • Add explanation on SDG 11, which relates to disaster preparedness, risk reduction, and response.

What’s in It for You?

Participating in the Robotics for Good Youth Challenge opens up a world of opportunities:

  • Global Recognition: Compete in the National Event hosted in your country, with the chance to qualify to the Grand Finale in Geneva during the AI for Good Global Summit 2025.
  • Leaders Pass: Gain exclusive access to the AI for Good Global Summit, where you’ll join thought leaders, innovators, and policymakers to discuss the future of AI and its potential to address global challenges.
  • Showcase Your Innovation: Present your robotic solution at an exhibition booth during the Summit, and get noticed by global influencers and potential collaborators.
  • Pitch Your Ideas: Take the stage in the Youth Zone, a dedicated platform at the Summit, to pitch your innovative solutions to an international audience.
  • Mentorship: Benefit from personalized follow-up mentoring by industry experts and esteemed judges, helping you refine your skills and ideas.
  • Networking: Connect with representatives from the United Nations, international organizations, and other potential partners, opening doors to future collaborations and career opportunities.

About the AI for Good Global Summit

The AI for Good Global Summit is the United Nations’ premier event for exploring how artificial intelligence can be leveraged to meet global challenges. Held annually in Geneva, this summit brings together a diverse group of stakeholders, including government officials, industry leaders, and innovators, to discuss and shape the future of AI. The Robotics for Good Youth Challenge Grand Finale is a highlight of the summit, showcasing the ingenuity and creativity of young people from around the world who are using robotics to drive positive change.

Why Wait? Start Innovating Now!

The Robotics for Good Youth Challenge is your chance to make a real impact. Whether you’re a seasoned coder or just getting started, this competition offers a platform for you to learn, grow, and contribute to a better future. Join the movement, and let’s build a world where technology and innovation are used for the greater good.

India – 17 October

In partnership with Technology Innovation Hub of IIT Delhi (IHFC)

 

Kenya – 26 October

 

Finland – 13 November

  • Discover more
  • Register to participate – registration opening soon

 

Zimbabwe – 29 November

 

Brazil – 30 November

In partnership with i2i

Ghana – 15 December

In partnership with Makers Place and Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR)

 

Ethiopia – 21 December

In partnership with Seattle Academy

 

South Korea – 21 December

 

Lesotho – 28 February – 1 March 2025