I would like to emphasize the importance and significance of the National Educational Robotics and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) Competition, which is fundamental to the progress of the educational community and society at large.
The competition offers students a unique opportunity to apply their theoretical knowledge to practical projects, enhancing skills such as problem solving, teamwork, and innovation. At the same time, it cultivates interest in science and technology, inspiring the younger generation to pursue careers in these fields.
Participation enhances students’ creativity, critical thinking, self-confidence, and perseverance, as they are challenged to face and overcome challenges with real impact.
25 Years of Service and Innovation
For 25 years, our organization has been the only body working systematically to introduce educational robotics and STEM into Greek education, based on the following principles:
- De-commoditization of hardware and software, using open technologies such as Microbit, Arduino, Scratch, and MakeCode.
- Decentralization of the competition, with regional representatives and zero participation costs, making it unique worldwide at this level.
- Linking projects to the natural sciences, so that problem solving is based on scientific laws and incorporates new technologies.
- Promotion of the competition as a Greek educational initiative, in contrast to other imported competitions that promote specific material.
- Internationalizing the institution by creating the International STEM Contest (STEMATHLON), in which students from Southern Europe, Africa, and the Middle East participate.
Teacher Support
The creation of PORTAL (https://portal.stem.edu.gr/) offers free bilingual support and training to teachers, both in Greece and abroad, enhancing the quality and accessibility of the educational process.
Competition Theme: “From Human Intelligence to Artificial Intelligence”
From kindergarten to high school, students explore the transition:
- From human-controlled mechanical constructions,
- To simple automations without human intervention,
- To complex projects with sensors and data usage (IoT),
- And finally, to data management through Artificial Intelligence (AI).
The integration of sensors (environmental, physical, energy, etc.) allows interaction with the environment and confirmation of fundamental laws of Natural Sciences, leading to smart automation.
Main Focus: Human Being
This year’s theme focuses on human beings and their basic needs: Food, Energy, Communication, Art, and Culture. Students are invited to create projects that offer solutions and improve everyday life, with the aim of autonomous operation through AI and scientific documentation.
There is an urgent need to support and promote such initiatives, as they are the foundation for the development of talented and innovative citizens who can contribute significantly to the progress of the country and the world.
Ioannis Somalakidis
