As the vibrant spirit of Papua New Guinea’s 50th political independence celebration fills the air in September, five exceptional Grade 11 STEM students from Lae Secondary School are preparing to extend that national pride onto the international stage. In October 2025, we will represent Team Papua New Guinea at the prestigious FIRST Global Robotics Challenge in Panama City, a global event that brings together young innovators from over 190 countries.

This year’s challenge, themed “Eco Equilibrium” calls upon teams to design and build robots that address critical environmental issues. For the Lae Secondary School team, this resonates deeply with our nation’s rich biodiversity and the pressing need for sustainable solutions.
Guided by our dedicated mentors and armed with our newly established robotics laboratory—a testament to Lae Secondary’s commitment to STEM excellence—these students are poised to demonstrate the ingenuity that thrives within Papua New Guinea.

Each member of Team PNG brings a unique skill set and a shared determination to succeed. We are not only mastering the intricacies of mechanical design, programming, and strategic thinking but also embracing the collaborative spirit essential for global challenges. Our journey to Panama is more than a competition; it’s an opportunity to learn from diverse cultures, forge international friendships, and showcase the boundless potential of Papua New Guinea’s youth in science and technology. As we prepare to compete, we carry the hopes and aspirations of our nation, aiming to inspire a new generation of STEM leaders and contribute to a more sustainable future for all.

Team Media

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