Ethiopia's First Global robotics team, comprised of seven talented young individuals, recently achieved a remarkable feat by securing a silver medal at the international robotics competition held in Athens, Greece. This competition, which saw participation from over 190 countries, provided a platform for Ethiopia to showcase its burgeoning technological prowess.
The team, led by Adama University of Science and Technology software engineering student Dagumi Gurum, faced the challenge of utilizing robotics technology to optimize processes ranging from food production to transportation.
Tsion Futsum, an 18-year-old first-year university student from Safari Academy, shared her experience, highlighting the technical difficulties they encountered in the first round. "Although we could not play well due to the technical problem we encountered in the first round, the problem was corrected and we were able to play well," she said. Despite the initial setback, the team's resilience and determination shone through, ultimately leading to their impressive second-place finish.
"We were very happy when we were told that we came second in the competition representing our country. This gave us a great feeling," Tsion expressed. She further emphasized the significance of their achievement, stating, "The biggest prize we got for coming second in the robotics competition is to be able to raise our country's flag at the venue and make our country famous on the world stage."
Tsion, driven by a desire to further elevate Ethiopia's standing on the global stage, acknowledged the growing interest in robotics within the country. However, she also highlighted the existing gaps and the need for increased government support to foster a more conducive environment for robotics development. "If the government creates a favorable environment for robotics technology, it is possible to produce competent teenagers," she asserted.
Noah Getachew, the technical team leader and a fourth-year software engineering student at Adama University of Science and Technology, shared insights into their innovative approach. "We were able to make a robot that could handle four balls. What we were able to overcome was the Holmonic drive, that is, we made it so that when the robot wants to turn in any direction while it is moving, it cannot immediately turn and go in all directions. This can save time. Most of the other competitors made a robot that could handle 2 balls, but we made a teaching robot that could handle 4 balls at once and achieve its goal. This helped us to win," he explained.
The team's success extended beyond the competition itself. They gained valuable experience in communication and collaboration, skills that will undoubtedly serve them well in their future endeavors. They also recognized the importance of making robotics accessible to students, emphasizing the need to integrate science, technology, engineering, and conceptual knowledge.
The team's journey serves as a testament to the potential of Ethiopian youth in the field of robotics. They are determined to continue their efforts, providing opportunities for others to explore their talents and contribute to solving real-world problems. They believe that by fostering a culture of innovation and encouraging participation in competitions, Ethiopia can further advance its position in the global robotics landscape.
The team's message is clear: Robotics is not just a toy, but a powerful technology with the potential to revolutionize various industries. They urge everyone to embrace a deeper understanding of robotics and its transformative capabilities.
With continued government support and a dedicated focus on nurturing young talent, Ethiopia is poised to become a leading force in the field of robotics, making significant contributions to the world stage.