This story was reported by Daily Mirror
The Dawoodi Bohra community in Sri Lanka hosted the World Robot Olympiad (WRO) National Competition on March 28 at Burhani Serendib School in Colombo, bringing together 66 teams and over 500 students from across the country. Held under the theme “Robots Meet Culture,” the event focused on promoting STEM education, innovation, and youth development.
A National Platform for Innovation
The event provided a national-level platform for students to showcase their skills and present innovative projects, combining technical knowledge with creativity. This marks the second consecutive year that Burhani Serendib School has hosted this competition, reflecting both the trust placed in the institution and its continued commitment to advancing STEM education in Sri Lanka.
“We are proud to welcome students from across the country. The increased attendance this year is testament to the budding talent scattered across our beloved nation,” said an organiser.
This year’s edition also saw remarkable growth. Participation increased from 27 teams in 2025 to 66 in 2026, with more than 500 attendees. This rise highlights the growing interest in robotics among students, educators, and parents, with more schools across the island stepping forward to take part.
The competition provided students with an opportunity to apply what they learn in classrooms to real-world challenges, encouraging practical thinking and problem-solving.
Strong Support from Leadership
The event was attended by several guests, including the Honourable Prime Minister of Sri Lanka, Dr. Harini Amarasuriya. Also present were Dr. Madhura Senevirathne, Deputy Minister of Education and Higher Education, as Chief Guest, along with Santosh Jha, Indian High Commissioner, and Sanjeev Arora, Counsellor at the High Commission of India, as special invitees.
In her address, the Prime Minister emphasised the importance of strengthening STEM education and ensuring that students across Sri Lanka have access to modern technological opportunities. She highlighted the role of such platforms in developing essential skills such as logical thinking, innovation, and teamwork among young learners.
This year’s theme, “Robots Meet Culture,” encouraged students to think beyond traditional robotics. Participants explored how technology can be used to represent and enhance cultural ideas, blending local traditions with modern engineering concepts.
Through their projects, students demonstrated how robotics can be used not only for technical solutions but also for storytelling, cultural preservation, and creative expression.
Learning Beyond the Classroom
One of the key outcomes of the competition was the hands-on learning experience it provided. Students worked in teams, built projects, and solved challenges in real time.
With increasing participation and growing interest in robotics, events like WRO are helping shape Sri Lanka’s future in technology and innovation.
The Dawoodi Bohra community continues to actively contribute to initiatives that promote education, innovation, and social development, remaining committed to building stronger, more inclusive communities and supporting the growth of future generations.