SPEECH BY MR CHAN SOO SEN, MINISTER OF STATE FOR EDUCATION, AT THE NATIONAL JUNIOR ROBOTICS COMPETITION 2004 AWARD PRESENTATION CEREMONY ON SATURDAY, 11 SEPTEMBER 2004, AT 4.30 PM AT THE SINGAPORE SCIENCE CENTRE, ANNEX BUILDING

Mr Willie Cheng, Chairman
Science Centre Board

Prof Lam Khin Yong
Director, A*STAR Graduate Academy and
Director, Managing Director's Office

Distinguished Guests

Teachers and Students

         I am very pleased to be here today to officiate at the Award Presentation Ceremony of the National Junior Robotics Competition (NJRC) 2004.

High Participation Rate
2.      It is heartening to see so many of you here, with so much enthusiasm and excitement. The NJRC is one of the biggest science and technology competitions in Singapore, and one that, I am told, generates much excitement and enthusiasm among school students.

The organizers have informed me that 853 teams from 228 primary and secondary schools took part in this year’s annual national robotics competition, a notable increase from last year’s participation of 741 teams from 200 schools.  I am even surprised to learn that a school sent a total of 30 teams for the competition! This is indeed a clear indication of the popularity of this event and more importantly, students’ growing interest in the field of robotics.

Knowledge and Skills Acquisition
3.      Robotics is an exciting field of study that allows us to put various human capabilities, like intelligence and decision-making, into machines. Advances in technology have made numerous achievements in robotics possible. This competition seeks to inculcate an understanding and appreciation of robotics and automation, and encourage innovation in robot design among students.

4.      As many of you would know, many schools have begun setting up robotics clubs to provide an alternative learning avenue for our students. Project work was also introduced into the school curriculum to promote higher-order thinking skills amongst our students. The NJRC thus serves as an opportunity for students to take advantage of the knowledge and skills gained from their robotics clubs and project work to come up with novel robotic creations. More importantly, students gain knowledge and skills beyond what their textbooks are able to impart.

5.      This competition provides the opportunity for students to keep up-to-date with cutting-edge information technology and apply their science and technology skills in an innovative and creative way. It sharpens their programming and robot-building skills, encourages them to think out-of-the-box, conduct independent research as well as to apply ingenuity in solving problems. The skills and qualities that they have gained from preparing for this competition will prepare them well for an innovation-driven economy.

6.      Besides honing science and technology skills, the competition also challenges students in unconventional ways, such as encouraging them to seek sponsorships from organizations to support their activities. This is a test of their presentation and marketing skills as well as a test of their entrepreneurial spirit.  Thus, students are exposed to a complete work process - from analysing a problem, to developing a workable solution, and finally, to marketing their product.

7.      I am exceptionally glad to witness the amount of networking among the students as I was brought around the competition area earlier. The NJRC has not only promoted creative learning within the spirit of friendly competition, it has also given students the opportunity to form friendships and alliances amongst their peers. This is, indeed, a valuable learning experience for all.

Commendations
8.      I would like to commend the Singapore Science Centre for holding these annual competitions, and for giving the many aspiring young, student robot inventors and enthusiasts the opportunity to develop their interest and potential in the exciting field of robotics.

9.      Students have risen well to the challenge, judging by the participation rate and the quality of entries. This also reflects the active and enthusiastic contributions made by teachers towards our pupils’ education experience. Teachers, you are crucial in helping our children to optimise their potential. Your tireless support and guidance have played a significant role in realizing the achievements that we see today. Continue to exude that enthusiasm so that our pupils will be provided with the best environment for learning.

10.     I would like to congratulate all pupils for the great effort that you have put in. You are all winners in your own right. To pupils who have given their best but have not won any award, do not be discouraged.  You have gained valuable lessons in robotics, problem-solving, and teamwork.  To the prize-winners, the prize that you will be getting is an affirmation of your capabilities, your hard work, and the discipline you have exhibited.

11.     The experience, knowledge and technical expertise that you pupils have acquired in preparing for the competition will be invaluable as you continue your pursuit of scientific exploration. I hope this competition has sparked in you an interest in applied technology. Perhaps, it may even propel some of you into a career in scientific research and make a scientist out of you.

Conclusion
12.     The results will be announced soon and I can sense the excitement and anticipation in the air. I shall not hold you in suspense any longer. On this note, I wish everyone an enjoyable afternoon. Thank you.