The National Robotarium has sparked interest in robotics careers among over 10,000 young learners, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds. As a global leader in robotics and artificial intelligence (AI), the Robotarium has organized more than 50 events, both virtual and in-person, since its inauguration in September 2022. These engagements, held in collaboration with various partners such as the Glasgow Science Centre and Datakirk, aim to democratize access to cutting-edge technology and inspire a diverse group of young minds to consider careers in robotics, AI, and data analytics.
This year [2023] also marks the fifth anniversary of the South-East Scotland City Region Deal. The National Robotarium is a key component of this £1.3 billion, 15-year investment program, co-funded by the UK Government, the Scottish Government, and regional partners. The Robotarium’s state-of-the-art £22.4 million facility is the largest and most advanced of its kind in the UK. It serves as an innovation hub, driving practical applications of robotics and autonomous systems across various industries and sectors of society.
One of its key objectives is to engage with organizations and charities striving to increase technology engagement among disadvantaged learners and tackle digital exclusion. The National Robotarium is also committed to promoting gender diversity in STEM subjects at the university level.
Sabaht Bashir, who co-leads industry and school engagement at the National Robotarium, expressed her excitement about the potential impact of their work. She highlighted the importance of innovation and collaboration in accelerating knowledge transfer and technological advancement into Scotland and the UK’s economy.
She emphasized the role of the National Robotarium in demonstrating how robotics can enhance human capabilities for societal and industrial benefit. Bashir also noted the importance of inspiring future generations of roboticists and AI innovators.
Libby Robertson, a sixth-grade student at Glasgow’s Knightswood Secondary School, shared her excitement about her visit to the Robotarium. She found the activities engaging and informative, and they sparked her interest in pursuing a career in robotics.
Gordon Cooper, a technical teacher at the same school, praised the National Robotarium team for their friendly and informative approach. He particularly noted the immersive reality activities and the robotic dog display as highlights of the visit.
Lauren Stalker, a computing science and digital literacy leader at St Thomas of Aquin’s R.C High School in Edinburgh, highly recommended the trip for all students. She found that seeing robots in action and learning about their programming languages inspired her students to consider careers in robotics.
UK Government Minister for Scotland, Malcolm Offord, commended the National Robotarium as a prime example of how the City Region Deal is creating exciting opportunities, driving economic growth and inspiring future scientists and engineers.
Scottish Government Wellbeing Economy Secretary, Neil Gray, congratulated the National Robotarium on its successful first year. He expressed his support for the development of ethical artificial intelligence as part of Scotland’s AI strategy, aligning with the recently published National Innovation Strategy.
Jarmo Eskelinen, Executive Director of the Data-Driven Innovation initiative and South-East Scotland City Region Deal, praised the National Robotarium as one of six hubs offering a world-leading platform for data-driven innovation across ten industry sectors. As the initiative celebrates its fifth anniversary, Eskelinen expressed his excitement about the potential joint opportunities in addressing societal and industry challenges.
