The robotics team has reached one of the most exciting and critical milestones of their journey — the final testing and refinement phase before their participation in the FIRST Global Challenge in Panama. With the programming phase successfully completed, the focus has now shifted to enhancing mechanical stability, fine-tuning calibration, and ensuring that every system is competition-ready. The team’s dedication, innovation, and teamwork are on full display as they prepare to represent Mauritius on the global stage.

Enhancing Design Stability and Performance

A key objective during this stage has been to refine the robot’s engineering design, with special attention given to the climber and intake systems. The climber has been strengthened and stabilised, ensuring smoother and more reliable operation during elevation tasks. The intake, too, has undergone several improvements, making it more precise, responsive, and efficient when handling game elements under pressure.

These enhancements are not merely adjustments — they represent weeks of testing, recalibration, and problem-solving. The team’s engineers and programmers have collaborated closely to balance mechanical precision with code optimisation. By analysing data from multiple test runs, they have improved motor synchronisation, fine-tuned sensor responsiveness, and achieved a higher degree of control and stability. Each improvement moves the team closer to their goal of building a competitive, high-performance robot ready to take on the challenges of the FIRST Global arena.

A Structured Approach to Collaboration

The robot has been strategically divided into six core components:

1. Climber
2. Drivetrain
3. Intake
4. Control Panel
5. Claws
6. Dispenser

Each member of the team has been assigned responsibility for one of these sections, ensuring deep technical understanding and ownership of their respective domains. This division of responsibility allows for more efficient collaboration, as every student becomes an expert in a specific subsystem while still understanding how each component integrates into the overall design.

This structure mirrors real-world engineering teamwork, where communication, trust, and precision are key. By practising this collaborative model, students are not only building a competitive robot but also developing essential professional and leadership skills that will serve them well beyond the competition.

Creating a Practical Assembly Manual

To streamline the assembly and reassembly process during competition, the team has begun conceptualising a detailed robot manual. This manual will include step-by-step assembly instructions, calibration guidelines, and quick troubleshooting solutions — ensuring that any adjustments can be made efficiently during the event.

The purpose is to make the rebuilding process instant and uncomplicated, even under the time pressure of international competition. Such documentation will also serve as a valuable resource for future teams, helping them understand the evolution of the design and apply lessons learned from this year’s experience.

Preparing for FIRST Global in Panama

The upcoming FIRST Global Challenge in Panama is one of the world’s most prestigious youth robotics competitions, bringing together teams from over 190 countries. It is a platform that celebrates science, technology, engineering, and innovation, while fostering global collaboration and problem-solving.

Representing Mauritius at such an event is a tremendous honour — and responsibility. The team has spent countless hours testing, refining, and perfecting their robot to ensure it meets the rigorous standards of the competition. The experience will not only test their technical skills but also expose them to diverse cultures, innovative engineering solutions, and global perspectives on sustainability and technology.

The packing date is set for Saturday, 25 October 2025, marking the completion of all preparatory stages. Every screw, sensor, and wire is being checked one last time before the robot begins its journey to Panama. The team is ready — both technically and mentally — to demonstrate what Mauritian ingenuity and teamwork can achieve on the international stage.

Teamwork and Resilience at the Core

Beyond engineering excellence, what truly defines this team is their unwavering teamwork and resilience. From late-night programming sessions to hands-on mechanical adjustments, every member has contributed to refining the robot and improving its performance. Challenges were met with collaboration, setbacks with creative solutions, and fatigue with determination.

The team’s cohesion reflects the deeper educational value of robotics — teaching perseverance, leadership, and adaptability. These young innovators are not only building a machine; they are cultivating skills that will empower them to tackle real-world challenges in engineering, technology, and beyond.

Mentorship, Learning and Global Connection

Mentorship continues to play a pivotal role in the team’s growth. Experienced guides and technical mentors have helped students navigate complex engineering concepts, refine their programming logic, and approach problem-solving with a professional mindset.

Participating in FIRST Global also connects the team with peers and mentors from around the world. Through collaboration and cultural exchange, they will gain new insights into global technological challenges, including sustainability, robotics for good, and STEM-driven innovation. This exposure is invaluable, broadening their perspectives and inspiring them to continue developing as future leaders in science and technology.

Ready for the Challenge Ahead

As the team completes final testing and prepares for departure, the sense of anticipation and pride is tangible. The robot, a culmination of months of design, programming, and teamwork, stands ready for competition. More importantly, the students behind it have grown into confident, capable innovators ready to represent Mauritius with excellence.

Their journey to the FIRST Global Challenge in Panama is not just a competition — it is a celebration of knowledge, perseverance, and international friendship. With precision engineering, teamwork, and an unshakable spirit, the team is ready to make Mauritius proud.

Tereza Röslerová – Communications Officer