The capital of Kazakhstan hosted the opening of the largest robotics championship, Central Asia FIRST Championship. Over the course of three days, more than 3,000 schoolchildren from five countries will compete for the title of the strongest.

Addressing the competition participants, the chairman of the secondary education committee noted that the Ministry pays special attention to the development of STEM education.

“Such competitions help young researchers discover their potential and find a calling in the fields of engineering, technology, physics and mathematics. This is an excellent platform for exchanging experiences, mutual inspiration and developing students’ scientific interests. Let this idea contribute to the development of robotics in our country, and let the participants achieve outstanding results. I wish you all success!” said Kanybek Zhumashev.

It should be noted that the championship will be held in three age categories as part of the global FIRST program: FLL Explore (6-10 years), FLL Challenge (10-16 years) and FIRST Tech Challenge (12-18 years). In addition to the robot game, the championship includes a competition for innovative projects and judging sessions.

It should be noted that FIRST championships are held annually on various topics. This year's season is themed around art and performance. The winners of the competition will receive valuable prizes, licenses to participate in international competitions in the USA, Australia, Singapore, grants to Kazakh and foreign universities, as well as diplomas of I, II, III degrees from the Ministry of Education of the Republic of Kazakhstan.

Organizers of the championship: USTEM Foundation together with the Republican Scientific and Practical Center "Daryn" and the capital's department of education with the support of the Ministry of Education of the Republic of Kazakhstan and the Akimat of Astana.