ASEAN Homegrown Robotics: Robotics Workshop in the Philippines using the Vietnamese G-Robot Supported by Focus Systems Corporation of Japan
In a groundbreaking collaboration, the first-ever Science Experiment Workshop: Robotics Workshop of the Leave a Nest Philippines, Inc. marks a significant step forward in promoting science and technology education in the region. Organized by Leave a Nest Philippines, a for-profit social enterprise that originated in Japan dedicated to advancing science and technology for global happiness, the workshops aimed to inspire and empower the next generation of innovators through hands-on robotics workshops.
The first robotics workshop, held at the Marian School of Quezon City on August 25, 2023, involved 20 students from Grade 5 and Grade 6. Guided by the theme “ROBO-QUEST: How to Conquer the Adventure of Trial and Error,” the workshop immersed students in a “gamified” learning experience that instilled the crucial mindset required for scientific research and engineering.
The students were assigned various quests, including the assembly of the G-Robot, a Vietnamese-made affordable robotics educational kit developed by GaraSTEM, learning to control it through an application, and navigating it through two different mazes. Through these hands-on activities, students gained valuable insights into the fundamentals of robotics and problem-solving.
Mr. Ryo Inori from Focus Systems Corporation, a Japanese cybersecurity-focused IT company, actively engaged with the students, providing insights into his company's diverse applications of IT across various sectors. He encouraged students to think critically about the workshop, underlining Focus Systems' commitment to bringing Japanese technologies to address issues in the Philippines and the broader ASEAN region.
Furthermore, Mr. Alexander Gali, the Teaching Manager of the workshop, emphasized the importance of perseverance in the face of trial and error, a fundamental aspect of scientific exploration. He encouraged students to consider pursuing a STEM track and a future career in science and technology.
The success of the Robotics workshop in Marian School paved the way for a second implementation of the workshop, held at PAREF Woodrose School, an all-girls private school in Muntinlupa, on November 13, 2023. This workshop, titled “ROBO-QUEST: Merging Mind and Machines” witnessed the active participation of 20 students, with 10 from Grade 5 and another 10 from Grade 6, who showcased their capabilities in robot building and basic programming skills.
The workshop provided students with the opportunity to delve into the details of assembling, controlling, and programming robots. Notably, Mr. Truong Vo Huu Thien, the founder and CEO of GaraSTEM, flew in from Vietnam to support the workshop, emphasizing the collaborative spirit that drove the event. Mr. Ryo Inori from Focus Systems Corporation also played a pivotal role in the workshop, contributing significantly to its success as he delivered an opening speech, shedding light on Focus Systems Corporation's mission and expressing his support for such initiatives.
Mr. Ronrick Arayata, the Teaching Manager of the workshop, encouraged participants to consider pursuing a STEM track for their future, stressing the importance of the coexistence of Automatic and Assisted Technologies in daily life. He emphasized that technology should empower, not replace, individuals.
Adding to the inspirational talks, Mr. Thien explained the founding principles of GaraSTEM, a venture supporting STEM education with affordable robotics kits. He shared his vision for expanding this initiative in the Philippines to further support schools in the region. He further demonstrated his willingness to improve education by giving out a free robot kit for the school to use, as he saw the passion the students had while they were using their company's robot kits in the workshop.
The Leave a Nest Philippines’ Science Experiment Workshops mark a significant milestone in promoting STEM education and nurturing the next generation of innovators in the country, as well as in the ASEAN region. Through the collaborative efforts of Leave a Nest Philippines, GaraSTEM, Focus Systems Corporation, and dedicated educators, these workshops have instilled a passion for science and technology among young minds, paving the way for a brighter future.
For more information, please contact Mr. Ronrick Arayata or Mr. Alexander Gali of Leave a Nest Philippines, Inc. through this Contact Page.