Robotics, Rovers, and Rumbles: Bangladesh to Host First National Soccer Bot Championship for Kids

For the first time, the National Soccer Bot Championship for children will be held in Bangladesh, with the event scheduled to take place on August 9 at the multipurpose hall of BRAC University in Dhaka. Titled “Creative Juniors Presents Robo Kickers – National Soccer Bot Championship for Kids,” the trophy unveiling ceremony took place on Saturday afternoon at the university's conference room, marking the beginning of a three-month-long preparation phase filled with various activities.

The trophy was unveiled by Professor Syed Ferhat Anwar, Vice Chancellor of BRAC University, and Ariful Hasan Apu, President of Space Innovation Camp, in front of more than 200 students from nearly 50 schools across Dhaka, accompanied by their guardians.

The event was moderated by Deepti Sarker, Outreach Team Lead at BRAC University, while the welcome speech was delivered by Dr. David Dowland, Registrar of BRAC University. Among others present were Zia Uddin Mahmud, Chief Operating Officer of Creative Business Group, and Mohammad Obaidur Rahman, Assistant General Manager of BRAC Kumon Limited.

In his keynote address, Professor Syed Ferhat Anwar stated, “An initiative like Robo Kickers will play a crucial role in nurturing innovation and technological skills among our students. Such efforts will inspire the next generation to think creatively and will open new horizons in Bangladesh’s technology and education sectors.”

Zia Uddin Mahmud, COO of Creative Business Group, remarked, “We are proud to be part of an initiative like Robo Kickers. Technology-driven competitions like this help foster creativity in children from an early age. We believe this event will unlock new possibilities in Bangladesh's education sector.”

Ariful Hasan Apu, President of Space Innovation Camp, noted, “Robo Kickers is not just a competition; it is a platform for our future generation to learn innovation, problem-solving, and the importance of teamwork. We hope participants will be inspired by this event to move forward in the fields of technology and innovation.”

In celebration of the trophy unveiling, a robot show was also held at the same venue. Children were introduced to around 15 different types of robots, including Mars Rover, Human Rover, Underwater Rover, Sumo Robot, and Soccer Bots. Three separate Robo Soccer fields were set up — measuring approximately 4.5x5.5, 4.5x6.5, and 4.5x8.5 square feet — where participating children engaged in instant Soccer Bot practice. There were also fun activities, and many joined in the robotic football matches.

With an atmosphere of vibrant festivity and engaging conversations, Robo Kickers has been jointly launched by Space Innovation Camp and BRAC University. The event aims to promote STEAM+C education (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Mathematics, and Computer) among children through playful learning and innovation.

Organizers announced that before the knockout phase of the tournament, 30 boot camps will be conducted in schools across the country. Three workshops will also be held for interested participants. It is anticipated that students from over 200 schools nationwide will express interest in taking part. Teams will be formed based on age groups — 6–10 years, 11–13 years, and 14–16 years — and fixtures will be scheduled accordingly.