Saint Lucia Competes on Global Stage in Robotics

Saint Lucia is showcasing its growing talent in science, technology and engineering on the international stage, with a team of young innovators representing the island at the 2026 FIRST Global Challenge in Incheon, South Korea.

The international robotics competition, taking place from October 7 to 10, brings together student teams from more than 190 countries to demonstrate their engineering capabilities, problem-solving skills and technological creativity.

Held annually, the Olympics-style event encourages young people to explore science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) through practical challenges that require teamwork and innovation.

This year’s competition, themed “Igniting Innovation,” challenges participants to design and develop robots capable of completing specific tasks.

Saint Lucian Students Develop Competition Robot

Team Saint Lucia entered the competition with a robot engineered to launch balls towards a designated goal, demonstrating the students’ ability to apply engineering principles to a practical challenge.

The project was developed with support from Saint Lucian technology company Orbtronics, which has served as the country’s facilitating partner for the FIRST Global Challenge for three consecutive years.

The company’s involvement has provided students with technical guidance and opportunities to develop their robotics and engineering skills.

Kevon Clark, a mechatronics engineer at Orbtronics, mentored the team throughout the development process, helping the students prepare their robot for international competition.

The project required extensive preparation, testing and modifications before the team was ready to represent Saint Lucia.

Months of Preparation and Engineering Challenges

Speaking at a pre-departure ceremony, Orbtronics co-founder Sherguan Roserie highlighted the significance of the team’s participation for Saint Lucia’s technological development.

“This has been months of hard work from our team. Our team has spent God knows how many hours working towards getting the robot ready for this competition. This is particularly important for Orbtronics, and not only Orbtronics, but the nation at large, because what this represents is something bigger than ourselves,” Roserie said.

He also emphasised the importance of providing young Saint Lucians with opportunities to pursue careers in technology and robotics.

“Their participation at the international robotics competition continues to be a beacon for young students growing up interested in technology and robotics that there are avenues to pursue their passions.”

The competition represents an opportunity for the students to apply their technical knowledge while interacting with young innovators from around the world.

Team Captain Highlights Perseverance and Collaboration

Team Saint Lucia is led by captain Matthew George, who described the challenges encountered while preparing for the competition.

According to George, the team had to rebuild its robot several times before arriving at a design suitable for the international event.

“Getting ready for the FIRST Global Challenge has been difficult. Challenge is in the name. But as a team, we’ve persevered. We’ve built a robot that we’ve had to build like three separate times. We’ve done this by listening to one another, sharing responsibilities, and, of course, following the engineering process,” George said.

The experience required students to work collaboratively, divide responsibilities and refine their approach through repeated testing and problem-solving.

Their preparation reflects the practical engineering and teamwork skills that the FIRST Global Challenge seeks to develop among young participants.

Corporate Support Helps Advance STEM Opportunities

Team Saint Lucia’s participation in the 2026 FIRST Global Challenge has been made possible through sponsorship from LUCELEC and Republic Bank.

Republic Bank’s contribution was provided through its Power to Make a Difference programme, which supports community development initiatives.

The backing of these organisations, alongside the technical mentorship provided by Orbtronics, has helped create an opportunity for Saint Lucian students to compete internationally.

Beyond the competition itself, the team’s participation highlights the potential for greater youth involvement in STEM education and technological innovation across the Caribbean.

As young innovators from more than 190 countries gather in South Korea, Team Saint Lucia’s presence demonstrates how collaboration between students, technology professionals and corporate partners can help open doors to international opportunities.