Student-designed robots compete for the grand prize

High school students demonstrate their remarkable robot inventions to the Minister of Science

HAMILTON, ON, April 7, 2018 /CNW/ - It's one thing for students to learn about science and technology in their classrooms, but it's another to give them the chance to take what they learn in textbooks and work together to create something entirely new and inspiring.

That's the goal of the annual FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) Robotics Canada District Competition, which is taking place this weekend at McMaster University in Hamilton. The competition brings together high school students from across Ontario to put the robots they designed through a series of challenging obstacles.

The Honourable Kirsty Duncan, Minister of Science and Minister of Sport and Persons with Disabilities, welcomed teams from different high schools to the competition and toured the students' robotic creations. In particular, Minister Duncan spoke with the students from Pelican Falls First Nations High School in Sioux Lookout, Ontario, who were competing in their second event with their robot Blue Bot x3.

During her remarks, Minister Duncan encouraged all students to remain curious and creative and to continue to pursue their passion for science. It is a message she is carrying on behalf of the Government of Canada, which believes in engaging youth in science-related activities so they can acquire the skills they need for the jobs of today and tomorrow.

Quotes

"This event teaches us all an important lesson: if we give students the opportunity to show their creativity and ambitions in science, they will always surprise us. I am inspired by all of the students who worked together to create these remarkable robots. I applaud their efforts and commend their teachers and parents who helped these students harness the power of science and technology."
– The Honourable Kirsty Duncan, Minister of Science and Minister of Sport and Persons with Disabilities

"FIRST - for Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology - offers every child pathways to personal success. The FIRST Robotics Competition experience is truly 21st century learning in a community-connected experiential learning environment—the only sport where every high school kid gets to go pro!"
– John Hobbins, FIRST Robotics Competition Director, FIRST Robotics Canada

"The world needs engaged young minds to meet the global grand challenges facing our world. Issues ranging from improving water quality to eradicating disease to building the next-generation vehicle must be addressed. The skills FIRST Canada helps youth develop will foster future leaders with critical thinking skills, ingenuity, compassion and ambition."
– Ishwar K. Puri, Dean of Engineering, McMaster University

Quick facts

• Founded in 1989, FIRST is a not-for-profit public charity that designs accessible, innovative programs that motivate young people to pursue education and career opportunities in science, technology, engineering and math while building self-confidence, knowledge and life skills.
• The district competition that took place today is one of several in a series of successive events FIRST Robotics runs in Ontario. The top 60 teams in Ontario will be invited to compete at the District Championship in Mississauga later this year.
• FIRST participation is proven to inspire students to pursue education and careers in STEM-related fields, become leaders and innovators, and enhance their 21st century work and life skills.

Follow the department on Twitter: @ISED_CA

SOURCE Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada