**Robotheadz to Represent Cyprus at Sydney Robotics Contest**
Cyprus’ young robotics team, Robotheadz, is gearing up to showcase their talents on an international stage as they prepare to represent the island at the FIRST LEGO League Asia Pacific Open Invitational 2026 in Sydney, Australia. The ten-member student team earned this opportunity by clinching first place in the national FIRST LEGO League competition, where they presented an innovative project that intertwines technology with Cyprus' rich cultural heritage.
The competition will take place from July 9 to 12, and the team is set to depart for Sydney in the coming days. Ahead of their journey, the students had a meeting with Demetris Skourides, the Chief Scientist for Research, Innovation and Technology in Cyprus. During this meeting, Skourides engaged with the students about their project and emphasized the importance of nurturing young talent within Cyprus’ research and innovation landscape.
Robotheadz’ winning project focuses on archaeology, a theme that was central to this year's national competition. The team developed a mobile application designed to promote Cyprus’ cultural heritage, utilizing elements of robotics, programming, and creative design. This innovative approach not only highlights the team’s technical skills but also their commitment to preserving and promoting their cultural identity.
In an effort to ensure the team is well-supported during their time in Sydney, Skourides reached out to Cyprus’ High Commissioner to Australia, Antonis Sammoutis. The coordination aims to facilitate connections with the Cypriot diaspora and the diplomatic mission, enhancing the team’s experience and support network while abroad.
As part of their representation of Cyprus, Robotheadz will bring promotional materials to the competition. These materials include two 3D-printed artefacts created by Marinos Ioannides' research team, audiovisual content showcasing Cypriot culture and innovation, and information about local research projects, including the development of a Cypriot nanosatellite.
Skourides expressed his belief in the potential of Cyprus' youth, stating, “Cyprus has an excellent human resource and we must create the conditions for our children to dream, create and distinguish themselves internationally.” He emphasized that investing in the younger generation is crucial for the future of the country. “As an institution, we support every effort that cultivates scientific thinking, innovation, and extroversion,” he added.
The Robotheadz team, coached by Pericles Cheng, is set to compete against a diverse array of teams from across the Asia Pacific region. Their project not only showcases their scientific and creative abilities but also embodies the cultural identity of Cyprus. Skourides expressed confidence in the team’s ability to serve as ambassadors for Cyprus, highlighting their knowledge, ethos, and creativity as key attributes that will shine through during the competition.
As the team prepares for this significant event, the excitement and anticipation are palpable. Robotheadz is not just competing for a title; they are representing a nation that values knowledge, research, and technological advancement. Their participation in the FIRST LEGO League Asia Pacific Open Invitational is a testament to the potential of young innovators in Cyprus and their role in shaping the future of the country’s technological landscape.