By: Lemuella Tarawallie
The National Commission for Children (NCC) received robotics kits from FIRST Global on Thursday, 21st August 2025, through DHL, in preparation for Sierra Leone’s participation in the 2025 International Robotics Challenge. The event, which will take place from 30th October to 5th November 2025 in Panama, brings together participants from over 190 countries to compete in innovative robotics challenges.
During the official unveiling of the kits, Joyce Wuya Tejan Kella, Commissioner for the National Commission for Children, highlighted the importance of this partnership with FIRST Global. She explained that the robotics kits are vital for Sierra Leone’s preparations, marking the next step in the country’s growing involvement in global robotics competitions.
“For the past six years, the Commission has partnered with FIRST Global to ensure Sierra Leone’s participation in this prestigious event,” said Commissioner Kella. “Each year, a new global theme is introduced, addressing critical issues. Last year’s theme focused on food security, aligning with President Bio’s vision of eradicating hunger in Sierra Leone. This year’s theme, ‘Eco-Equilibrium,’ will focus on climate change, with particular emphasis on flooding, agriculture, and environmental sustainability.”
She also noted that the government has started rolling out STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) clubs in schools nationwide, providing students with opportunities to learn about artificial intelligence (AI) and innovation from an early age. The Commissioner reiterated the government’s commitment to preparing Sierra Leone’s young people for the future through robotics and AI, despite the financial challenges the Commission faces.
“Although we are enthusiastic, this year’s preparations are cash-strapped,” Commissioner Kella admitted. She appealed to local and international partners, donors, and the private sector to support the children’s journey to the global competition in Panama.
Joyce Kamara, Director of the Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs, expressed her gratitude to FIRST Global and other supporters for their investment in the education and future of Sierra Leone’s children. She emphasized the significance of empowering young people with skills in science, technology, and innovation to equip them for future challenges.
“This contribution is very meaningful,” Kamara said. “It will help our children participate effectively in the upcoming global robotics competition, while also contributing to Sierra Leone’s national development.” She reaffirmed the government’s full support for the initiative, underscoring that investing in young learners is not only beneficial for individuals but essential for building a stronger nation.
Kadija Mabel Tarawallie, a student from St. Joseph Secondary School and a member of Team Sierra Leone Robotics, expressed excitement about receiving the robotics kits. She shared that the team is eager to start building and programming their robot for this year’s competition theme, “Eco-Equilibrium”, focusing on climate change, flooding, agriculture, and environmental sustainability.
Valdi Valcarcel, Team Captain of Team SL Robotics, also expressed gratitude for the kits, emphasizing the team’s readiness to work together to design, build, and program their robots for the competition.
With the support of FIRST Global, the Sierra Leone team is set to embark on a journey of learning, innovation, and global representation as they prepare for the 2025 International Robotics Challenge.
