Five students from the Virgin Islands have been selected to represent the Territory at the 2025 FIRST Global Robotics Competition, scheduled to take place in Panama from 29th October to 1st November.

The team comprises Jayron Gibson and Denae Scatliffe Chalwell, graduates of the Elmore Stoutt High School, Grade 12 students Judiah Case and Keyara Smith and Grade 11 student Eleazar Brooks of the Bregado Flax Educational Centre Secondary Division.

The announcement was made by the Honourable Sharie de Castro, Minister for Education, Youth Affairs, and Sports, during this year's Summer Robotics Camp Showcase and Exhibition. Honourable de Castro encouraged campers to continue engaging with robotics, emphasizing that consistent practice and participation would prepare them to represent the Territory on international platforms. She noted that such experiences not only develop technical skills but also enhance their readiness for other opportunities.

The FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) Global Robotics Competition, established in 2017, is an international event that aims to inspire and promote STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education among students worldwide.

The Ministry of Education, Youth Affairs and Sports extends its best wishes to the team as they prepare for Panama and encourages the community to support these talented students as they showcase their skills on the global stage.

 The announcement of the 2025 Virgin Islands Robotics Team as well as the Summer Robotics Camp Showcase and Exhibition, can be viewed on the Government’s Facebook page at BVIGovernment.

Photo 1: Group photo of the Minister for Education, Youth Affairs and Sports Honourable Sharie de Castro and the 2025 Virgin Islands Robotics Team

Photos 2 and 3: Photos from the Summer Robotics Camp 2025 Showcase and Exhibition at the Enis Adams Primary School Courtyard. 

(Photo credit: GIS: F. Skerritt)