Robotics for Good Youth Challenge - Innovate for a Better World
by International Telecommunication Union (ITU)
International Recognition from ITU/UN
The Robotics for Good Youth Challenge is a global robotics competition by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) under the AI for Good initiative. It invites young innovators to design and build robotic solutions addressing global challenges.
Mode
In-Person
Fee
Free
Participation format
Individual and team
Teams of 1 to 8
Duration
A few days for the Grand Finale.
Eligibility
Open to school students aged 11-18. Participants should be passionate about robotics, AI, and contributing to Sustainable Development Goals. The competition is open to teams of 1-8 members or individuals worldwide. Each team must have a coach or mentor aged 18 or above. The participant must be a winner of a national-level challenge.
- Grade level
- Grade 6 to 12
- Age range
- 11 to 18 years
- Eligibility region
- Available nationwide across India
- Academic requirement
- Participants should be passionate about robotics, AI, and creating solutions that contribute to SDGs, and participants should be a winner of national-level Robotics for Good Youth Challenge.
- Prerequisites
- Basic understanding of robotics or programming concepts is helpful but not mandatory.
- Access to materials for building a robot and a computer for programming.
- Successful qualification through national-level Robotics for Good Youth Challenge India.
See if your child qualifies.
Rewards and recognition
Certificate
Certificate from ITU/UN
Participants receive certificates of participation. Winners receive certificates of achievement recognized by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and the United Nations.
Recognized by
Opens doors to
Participation and achievements in this global UN-based competition provide a significant advantage in university applications, particularly for STEM programs, demonstrating practical skills, innovation, and a commitment to global issues.
Career pathways
Access to mentorship from leading AI and robotics experts, along with invaluable networking opportunities with UN representatives, industry experts, and global leaders, significantly enhancing future career prospects in STEM fields.
Recognition
International Recognition
Skills your child builds
Key dates
- Registration opened
- 15 Jul 2026
- Registration closes
- 1 Apr 2027
- Competition
- 22 Jun 2027 to 25 Jun 2027
- Results
- 10 Jul 2027
Official Launch of 2026–27 Edition
The challenge officially launched, focusing on health emergencies, marking the start of the innovation journey.
Video Submission Deadline for Online Participation
Deadline for participants without a physical local chapter event to submit their project videos and design documents online. Ensure submissions are complete by 23:59 IST.
Announcement of Best Online and National Teams
Selected teams qualifying for the Grand Finale will be announced on this date. Teams should check the official website for results.
Grand Finale at AI for Good Global Summit 2027
The final competition and awards ceremony will take place in Geneva, Switzerland, as part of the AI for Good Global Summit.
Final Results Announcement
The official results for the Grand Finale will be announced, including winners and special recognitions.
Palexpo, Geneva, Geneva
How to apply
- 1Visit the IHFC website to access the official registration portal.
- 2Complete the online registration form, providing details about your team and project idea.
- 3Develop your robotic solution, focusing on the competition's theme and objectives.
- 4Submit your design document and a video of your working robot through the IHFC portal by the specified deadline.
- 5Attend the national event for qualifying rounds and final presentations.
- 6Winning team will represent its nation in international level.
Rules and guidelines
- Teams can consist of 1 to 8 members; individual participation is also allowed.
- The team's category (Junior or Senior) is determined by the age of the oldest team member.
- Each team must have a coach or mentor who is at least 18 years old.
- Robots must be entirely built and programmed by the team members.
- Robots must be decorated around the competition's theme, such as disaster response, to pass homologation.
- Robots must not pose a risk to people, competition facilities, or materials.
- Participants must ensure their robot designs comply with the official rulebook.
- Participants are responsible for purchasing their own robot components and materials.
Technology requirements
- Participants can use platforms such as Arduino, Raspberry Pi, or LEGO Mindstorms.
- Robots can be built with any kind of material and programmed with any desired platform.
- Teams need access to power outlets for charging robots and computers.
- An internet connection must be available to participating teams.
- Participants can use platforms such as Arduino, Raspberry Pi, or LEGO Mindstorms for robot development.
- Teams need access to power outlets for charging robots and computers at the event.
- An internet connection must be available to participating teams for online submissions and resources.
About this opportunity
The Robotics for Good Youth Challenge is a UN-based educational robotics championship that inspires young people to create robotic solutions for global challenges, particularly those related to the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Participants design, build, and program robots to complete missions, gaining hands-on experience in robotics, artificial intelligence, and STEM education. The challenge promotes inclusivity by making learning accessible regardless of gender, socio-economic status, or academic ability. This competition encourages the use of free and open-source software and hardware, allowing unrestricted assembly and programming of robots.
It also emphasizes the development of sustainable robots by encouraging the use of recycled materials and environmentally friendly solutions. The challenge aims to empower young people to become innovators and changemakers, equipping them with the confidence and skills needed to tackle real-world issues and drive sustainable solutions for their communities and beyond.
National events, like the one held in India, serve as qualifying tournaments for the Grand Finale in Geneva during the AI for Good Global Summit. Themes often focus on critical areas such as disaster response, including earthquake relief, and food security. Participants develop vital working-life and future skills, including teamwork, problem-solving, project management, critical thinking, and information retrieval. This competition offers a unique entry point into STEM disciplines while fostering problem-solving and teamwork skills that are critical for the next generation of digital leaders.
Rounds and format
The competition typically involves national qualifying rounds followed by a Grand Finale. Teams present their robotic solutions to a panel of judges.
How entries are judged
Evaluation criteria include innovation, feasibility, social and environmental impact, presentation, and teamwork. Robot design, functionality, and adherence to the theme are also assessed.
Selection process
Teams are selected based on the innovation, feasibility, and impact of their robotic solutions, as well as their presentation and teamwork.
How to prepare
- Official Challenge Rulebook
- Mentoring sessions with robotics and engineering experts
- Workshops on specific technical skills and project development
Academic details
Difficulty: Intermediate
What's covered
The competition focuses on designing, building, and programming robots to address specific global challenges, often related to disaster response or food security, aligning with UN Sustainable Development Goals. Participants learn through hands-on project development, problem-solving, and adherence to a detailed rulebook for robot functionality and mission completion.
Frequently asked questions
How can participants effectively manage the complexity of designing and programming a robot for the challenge?
Participants can break down the project into smaller, manageable tasks, utilize modular design principles for their robots, and leverage online resources and community forums for programming assistance. Regular testing and iteration are crucial for identifying and resolving technical challenges efficiently.
What strategies can teams employ to stand out in a global competition with diverse participants?
Teams can focus on innovative solutions that directly address the challenge theme, ensure their robot design is robust and functional, and practice clear and concise presentation skills. Highlighting the unique impact and feasibility of their solution can significantly enhance their standing.
How do participants overcome performance anxiety during the final presentation and robot demonstration?
Thorough preparation and repeated practice of the presentation and robot demonstration can build confidence. Focusing on the team's strengths, anticipating potential questions, and maintaining a positive mindset can help manage anxiety effectively during high-pressure situations.
What are the key factors judges consider when evaluating robotic solutions in this competition?
Judges typically assess innovation, the practical feasibility of the solution, its social and environmental impact, the clarity and effectiveness of the presentation, and the teamwork demonstrated. Robot design, functionality, and adherence to the competition theme are also critical evaluation points.
How can teams ensure their robotic solution aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the specific theme?
Teams should thoroughly research the chosen SDG and the competition's theme (e.g., health emergencies) to understand the core problems. Their robot's design and function should directly contribute to solving aspects of these challenges, with a clear explanation of the connection in their documentation and presentation.
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