The Bermuda National Robotics Team is to represent Bermuda in Panama in a prestigious international competition.

The team is flew from the island today to compete until November 1 in the First Global Challenge 2025, a yearly robotics contest organised by the International First Committee Association promoting Stem [Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics] learning.

The challenge this year is themed Eco Equilibrium and brings together 194 countries for a “dynamic display of innovation, engineering and global collaboration”.

To date, Bermuda is ranked 82 out of 194 nations. A spokeswoman for the team said this was “an impressive standing that reflects the team’s growing skill and determination to make their mark on the international robotics landscape”.

The Bermuda team’s competition robot, affectionately named Lo-Quat, will be engaged in a sustainability-focused challenge. The robot was designed and built by Bermudian students using a combination of technical knowledge, creativity and problem-solving abilities.

“This isn’t just about building robots; it’s about building the next generation of innovators and leaders,” the spokeswoman said.

“We want every student in Bermuda to see themselves as capable of competing and excelling in technology.”

The spokeswoman said that the Bermuda National Robotics Programme, created to give young engineers a space to “design, build, create and thrive,” is calling for robotics to be formally recognised as a national sport.

“This vision aims to give young Bermudians the same level of support and recognition as athletes in more traditional sports, highlighting robotics as a discipline that fosters teamwork, critical thinking and real-world Stem skills.”

The Bermuda National Robotics Team is made up of 20 students from public and private schools across the island.

After months of preparation, training and technical development, five student representatives were selected to compete in Panama.

They will join peers from around the world for an intense, fast-paced competition where alliances are formed, challenges are tackled and innovation celebrated.

Local organisers thanked sponsors including ConnecTech Coding, Ark, CG Insurance and Paradise Mobile.

The spokeswoman said team left for Panama with “pride, passion and purpose, ready to wave the Bermudian flag high”.