FIRST robotics competition returns to Shanghai, spotlighting youth innovation

Teams have to design and program robots to transplant artificial coral and collect simulated algae in this year's competition. (Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn)

The 2025 FIRST Robotics Competition Shanghai Regional has returned to the city after a six-year hiatus, inspiring youth in science and technology.

The three-day event starting Friday has brought together nearly 1,000 young competitors from 43 teams — including three international teams.

Held at East China Normal University, the event centered on this year's theme "Reefscape", challenging participants to address environmental issues through robotics. Teams have to design and program robots to transplant artificial coral and collect simulated algae, simulating marine ecosystem restoration processes.

"Every year, we design challenges around real-world themes — from oceans to healthcare to transportation," said Chris Moore, CEO of FIRST, a global nonprofit organization that runs robotics programs. "We're in 111 countries worldwide, and China represents one of our most prominent markets. We want to stimulate more interest in STEM and robotics across the country."

Teams have been preparing since January when the challenge was announced. The competition features qualification matches on Saturday and elimination rounds on Sunday. Robots operate autonomously for 15 seconds before a 2-minute-and-15-second remote-control period. Top teams will advance to the world championship in Houston, Texas, next month.

Qian Xuhong, president of East China Normal University and academician of Chinese Academy of Engineering, described FRC as "not just a contest of skills but a vivid classroom of the future" and "a cradle for nurturing future technology leaders".

"It's a stage for young people worldwide to engage in intellectual dialogue with the world," Qian added.

Chen Bangchao, operations director of the FRC China committee, emphasized the event's focus on personal development. "This platform brings together young science and technology enthusiasts as China moves toward becoming a technological powerhouse in the AI era."

"Competitions like this complement traditional academic learning. We hope that more extensive hands-on scientific and technological activities can prepare students for rapid technological change," said Shi Hongliang, principal of the Minhang Zizhu Branch of the No 2 High School affiliated to East China Normal University.

Li Peixuan, team captain from the high school, highlighted the competition's collaborative spirit: "This competition supports open source and mutual help among teams. It's more important to go beyond the robots and enjoy the process." Li said he also hopes to see the program expand to other Chinese cities.

International participants including Matt Lussier, coach of Plus Ultra Robotics from California, have praised the event's organization and impact.

"I've been to many events, including world championships. By far, this regional event here in Shanghai is my favorite regional I have ever attended," Lussier said, commending the strong US-China team collaboration.

Since its introduction to China in 2014, FRC has grown significantly, with China hosting the largest number of FRC teams outside North America. For the 2024 season, nearly 3,500 teams have been registered worldwide, with nearly 90,000 students and 28,000 team mentors taking part, representing 28 different countries and regions.