Trinidad and Tobago has embarked on an ambitious educational initiative with the official launch of the First Tech Challenge (FTC) robotics program, marking a significant advancement in STEM education for the nation’s youth. The National Institute of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology (Niherst), in partnership with Shell Trinidad and Tobago Ltd, unveiled the pilot season under the 2025-2026 global theme ‘Decode’ during a ceremony that brought together government officials, educators, and industry leaders.
The FTC program represents an international robotics competition designed specifically for students aged 12-18, challenging participants to design, build, and program robots capable of completing themed missions. This initiative builds upon Niherst’s successful implementation of the First Lego League, offering students a natural progression into more advanced robotics, Java programming, and sophisticated engineering design principles.
Education Minister Dr. Michael Dowlath emphasized the program’s comprehensive educational value, stating, ‘The First Tech Challenge transcends technical education—it fundamentally teaches life skills, teamwork, and the ability to think globally while acting locally to address immediate challenges.’ His sentiment was echoed by Professor Prakash Persad, Minister of Tertiary Education and Skills Training, who highlighted the critical importance of mathematical foundations in coding and programming.
The launch event featured compelling keynote addresses from prominent figures including Julie David, Niherst’s acting president, and Ryssa Brathwaite, Shell’s social performance and investment advisor. Brathwaite articulated Shell’s commitment: ‘Our investment in this program demonstrates our dedication to youth development. Together with Niherst, we’re creating an ecosystem where students can experiment courageously, learn from failures, and achieve success beyond their expectations.’
A live robotics demonstration provided attendees with tangible insights into the practical applications of the program, showcasing the innovative potential that participants will develop. The event attracted widespread participation from schools, educators, and youth organizations across Trinidad and Tobago, all eager to engage with this transformative educational opportunity.
Looking forward, the FTC pilot season will continue throughout 2026, culminating in a National Robotics Championship where student teams will showcase their technological creations and compete for the opportunity to represent Trinidad and Tobago on the international stage. Minister Dowlath further announced plans to integrate robotics clubs across all educational levels, including primary and early childhood education institutions, ensuring comprehensive STEM exposure from the earliest educational stages.