As a robotics enthusiast and a representative of Cao Bằng in national and international competitions, I have witnessed firsthand the transformative power of robotics education. Through our VEX Robotics project, we strive to expand access to robotics learning, ensuring that more students can experience the benefits of hands-on STEM education. Robotics is not just about programming and assembling robots—it cultivates critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and teamwork, all of which are essential for future careers in science and engineering.

One of the most eye-opening aspects of our journey has been seeing how robotics is deeply integrated into STEM education in more technologically advanced countries. In these places, students engage with robotics from an early age, allowing them to develop a strong foundation in innovation and problem-solving. This has reinforced our commitment to bringing similar opportunities to students in Cao Bằng, where access to robotics education has traditionally been limited.

To bridge this gap, our team has actively introduced VEX Robotics in schools and public spaces across the province, creating opportunities for students to explore technology in an interactive and engaging way. One of our most meaningful initiatives was donating a VEX GO kit to Ngũ Lão Elementary School, providing young learners with an early introduction to robotics. By making robotics education more accessible, we hope to inspire curiosity and excitement about STEM from an early age, empowering students to see themselves as future engineers, programmers, and innovators.

Through our efforts, we want to show that robotics education is not just a privilege for a few but a powerful tool for all students to unlock their potential and develop skills that will serve them throughout their lives.

Cao Bằng is a mountainous province where students with a passion for robotics often face limited access to resources and opportunities. Unlike urban centers with well-equipped schools and dedicated robotics programs, students here have fewer chances to interact with advanced technology. This is why community robotics classes play a crucial role—they provide valuable hands-on experiences that allow students to engage with robotics in ways that would otherwise be out of reach.

In these classes, students don’t just read about robotics; they actively build and control robots themselves. They learn to identify and assemble various components, gaining an understanding of how each part contributes to the overall function of the robot. As they construct different mechanisms, they begin to see the connections between design and movement, strengthening their problem-solving and engineering skills. Beyond assembly, they also gain practical experience operating robots through remote controllers, which enhances their understanding of motion, coordination, and real-time decision-making. Additionally, students are introduced to programming concepts using tools like VEXcode V5, learning how specific commands dictate the robot’s actions. This process gives them a deeper appreciation for the logic behind automation and artificial intelligence, sparking further curiosity about the possibilities of technology.

These hands-on experiences are invaluable. They not only inspire students to explore new knowledge but also instill confidence in their ability to innovate. By engaging in robotics, students develop critical thinking, teamwork, and perseverance—skills that will benefit them far beyond the classroom. More importantly, these community robotics classes serve as a testament to the fact that both Cao Bằng and Vietnam as a whole are striving to keep pace with global technological advancements. Despite geographical and resource limitations, there is a growing effort to ensure that students here are not left behind in the rapidly evolving world of robotics.

For us, being instructors in these classes is both an honor and a source of immense pride. Guiding students step by step into the world of robotics, watching their eyes light up with excitement as they bring their creations to life, and seeing their curiosity transform into a passion for learning—these moments make our work incredibly fulfilling. Through these efforts, we hope to cultivate the next generation of problem-solvers, engineers, and innovators, proving that no matter where they come from, every student deserves the opportunity to explore and excel in STEM.

The journey of spreading VEX Robotics through Empower Cao Bằng Through Robotics Education is not just about sharing technical knowledge—it is about building a thriving community where students, mentors, and teams can connect, learn, and grow together. This initiative has created a space where both new and experienced teams can collaborate, exchange ideas, and support one another in their robotics journey. By fostering an environment of teamwork and mentorship, the event plays a crucial role in advancing robotics education in Cao Bằng.

One of the most meaningful moments of this journey was supporting young teams, such as Team 79491A, as they took their first steps into the world of competitive robotics. Witnessing their excitement and eagerness to learn was incredibly inspiring—not just for them, but for us as well. Their enthusiasm fueled our own creativity and reinforced the importance of providing accessible robotics education to more students. Through hands-on experiences with technical and coding programs, participants didn’t just develop robotics skills; they also strengthened essential life skills like teamwork, communication, and problem-solving—abilities that are valuable in any field.

More than just a single event, Empower Cao Bằng Through Robotics Education has played a significant role in shaping a new generation of robotics enthusiasts. By connecting students from different backgrounds and skill levels, it has created an ecosystem where knowledge is continuously shared and innovation is encouraged. The event has become a catalyst for growth, inspiring not only those who participate but also future generations who will follow in their footsteps.

I am incredibly proud to contribute to this initiative. Empower Cao Bằng Through Robotics Education is more than a gathering—it is a launchpad for new talent, a space where ideas take shape, and a movement that spreads the spirit of robotics to even more people. Through this effort, we hope to make robotics education more accessible and impactful, ensuring that every student, regardless of their starting point, has the opportunity to explore, create, and thrive in the world of STEM.

- Translated from Vietnamese