Speaker
Description
Abstract
As Africa advances into the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR), robotics education has emerged as a powerful catalyst for digital skills development, innovation, and inclusive participation in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). This proposed Robotics Outreach and Training Programme—rooted in the South African Radio Astronomy Observatory’s (SARAO) long-standing Robotics Schools Programme—demonstrates how hands-on robotics learning can transform opportunities for youth and educators, particularly in rural and underserved regions. Such a programme successfully equips learners with practical skills in designing, coding, and programming robots, enabling them to compete nationally and ideally. These initiatives align with national priorities by strengthening digital literacy, fostering problem-solving and creativity, and narrowing the digital divide—often using equipment that functions effectively even in low-resource, non-connected environments.
Insights gained will inform future continental efforts and may support the potential establishment of an African Robotics Network to ensure sustained mentorship and growth. Ultimately, such an initiative serves as an entry point for co-creating a robust, scalable robotics ecosystem that equips Africa’s next generation of innovators, engineers, and scientists.
| Stream | Education, Development and Outreach |
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