Ukrainian children dream big with robotics, even amid war

Even as war continues in Ukraine, young minds are finding ways to innovate and dream big. Anna Tieliehina, 14, and Oles Letyta, 12, recently triumphed in a national robotics competition in Ukraine. They have traveled to Seoul to participate in the International Programming Robot Challenge, demonstrating their passion and skill on a global stage.

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I made sure that the wheels were fastened tight so that the robot wouldn’t wobble when it picked up boxes.

Anna's robot, designed for pathfinding and carrying objects, impressed with its accuracy. She meticulously ensured its stability, stating, “I made sure that the wheels were fastened tight so that the robot wouldn’t wobble when it picked up boxes.” Her dedication paid off as her robot excelled in navigating mazes and transporting items. Anna, who started programming in seventh grade, became the first female student to win the Ukrainian qualifiers, a significant achievement given no female students participated the previous year.

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We had to program the robot’s path at the competition venue. I quickly corrected the errors I found during the first round, so the robot did a better job navigating in the second round.

Oles, inspired by his brother's participation, built a remote-controlled shooting robot. He dedicated about four months to its design and construction, revising his initial concept multiple times. "To prepare for the competition, I would focus on designing my robot as soon as I was done with school and before dinner," he explained. His robot successfully knocked down targets with precision using a joystick.

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To prepare for the competition, I would focus on designing my robot as soon as I was done with school and before dinner. I revised my first idea many times, so the whole process took about four months.

Both young innovators are pursuing their dreams despite the challenging circumstances in their home country. Anna shared her mother's enthusiastic support, saying, “My mom was over the moon when she heard that I’d won. She’s cheering me on, saying that I’ll get even better results in the Korean competition.” Their journey to Seoul represents not just a competition, but a testament to the enduring spirit and aspirations of Ukrainian children.

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My mom was over the moon when she heard that I’d won. She’s cheering me on, saying that I’ll get even better results in the Korean competition.