Astrovo, a robotics team from the Cape Academy of Mathematics, Science and Technology (CAMST) has earned the opportunity to represent South Africa at the First Tech Challenge (FTC) World Championship in Houston, Texas in April.

For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology (First) is a global nonprofit organisation that prepares youth for the future through a suite of inclusive, team-based robotics programmes for ages 4-18.

Astrovo clinched the national title, with alliance partners Texpand of Pinelands, at the FTC South African Championship, held in Observatory on Friday and Saturday, February 14 and 15. Joining the alliance winners on the international stage next month is another Western Cape robotics team, the Hyperion Bots.

“We are incredibly proud of our team’s achievements and excited for the opportunity to represent South Africa on the world stage,” said Fatima Jakoet, founder of the Sakhikamva Foundation. “This is more than just a competition — it’s a chance to collaborate with global innovators and advance the future of robotics.”

The Sakhikamva Foundation is a non-profit organisation focused on science, technology, engineering and maths (Stem) education and mentors teams in three of First’s programmes: a total of 11 First Tech Challenge teams, eight First LEGO League teams and one First Robotics Competition team.

“The making of the robot took months of coding, design and development of various prototypes before the final design was established. The team focused on a reliable design which scores consistently in every aspect of the game. Their hard work and perseverance has paid off. In the interim, the team also did outreach in the communities, fundraising and marketing their team on social media,” Ms Jakoet said.

Astrovo, who first competed in the 2019/2020 season, are seven pupils in grades 9 to 12.

As they gear up towards the world championships, Astrovo is now actively seeking sponsorships from companies, educational institutions, and corporate partners and have started a BackaBuddy campaign to raise R300 000 to fund travel, equipment upgrades, and competition expenses.

Israel Smith joined Astrovo in 2023. Currently in Grade 10 he says the national championship was challenging but after all the effort, it was a relief to have won. He is excited to go to the world championships to see some of the best robots in the world and compete at an international level.

Team captain, Devrin Devilliers, age 17, currently in Grade 12, says the team has worked hard to earn the position to represent South Africa on a global stage.

“It was an amazing experience being a part of an event like the First Tech Challenge in South Africa, with all the different people from different backgrounds competing in one competition. It's also great that we triumphed and are currently the number one alliance in South Africa alongside our partner Texpand.”

“Frankly, I feel nervous to compete on an international platform, but a great opportunity. I think I speak for our team when I say that it's going to be stressful competition days for everyone, but we will take it one step at a time.”