Having introduced MATE-ROV (underwater robotics) to The KAUST School this year, KAUST is now the official MATE-ROV regional partner for Saudi Arabia.
MATE (Marine Advanced Technology Education) Underwater Robotics enables students to learn and apply science, technology, math, engineering, and entrepreneurial skills. MATE’s suite of underwater ‘robots’ (remotely operated vehicle – ROV) kits and instructional materials offer students at Elementary, Middle and High School the opportunity to progress from beginner through advanced topics, driven by their own desire to increase the capabilities of their robotos – and build upon their knowledge and skills.
In May 2023 KAUST hosted the first regional competition in Saudi. Teams from schools in the Kingdom took part in a day of competitions in both the Ranger and Scout categories. Their robots were given a number of missions to complete under the water… but it’s not just about what goes on in the water – teams are scored on their product and engineering presentation, their marketing materials, and their social and environmental responsibility. Although this was TKS’ first year of MATE-ROV, they equipped themselves well in both categories and won a number of awards, including Best Pool Demonstration, Best Poster and Best Engineering. The ultimate surprise of the day being that the TKS Rangers team – Reef Rovers – won the Regional competition! They now have the opportunity to take part in the World Championships, which are being held in Colorado in June 2023.
Pictures from the competition can be found in the KEY album, using this link …and more from Core Labs here.