The FIRST Global Challenge is an Olympics-style international robotics competition where students from over 190 countries design, build, and program robots to solve a global challenge through teamwork and innovation.

The 2026 competition will be held in Incheon, Republic of Korea, from October 7th to 10th, 2026, under the theme “Igniting Innovation.”

The Igniting Innovation Robotics Challenge will task teams with designing and building robots from a standardized kit of parts to address a simulated environment inspired by wildfire prevention, mitigation, and recovery. Through hands-on engineering and strategic gameplay, students will explore how technology can help reduce the risk and impact of fires, protect communities, and support environmental resilience in a warming world. In addition to the main competition, teams will participate in the Igniting Innovation New Technology Experience (NTE), a project-based initiative that challenges students to develop innovative, real-world solutions using emerging technologies. Through the NTE, teams will examine fire-related challenges in their own countries and propose scalable ideas that leverage data, automation, and scientific research to reduce risk and strengthen preparedness. Get ready to spark the flames of innovation. The world needs you more than ever before.

Students aged 14 to 18 years old who are passionate about STEM, teamwork, and innovation are eligible to apply, regardless of prior robotics experience.

No prior experience is required. Students are selected based on their willingness to learn, problem-solving ability, teamwork, and commitment to the program.

The travelling team (5 team members) represents Saint Lucia at the international competition in South Korea, while the non-travelling team (5 team members) participates in training, robot development, and local activities leading up to the event.

Applications Open: April 28th, 2026. Applications Close: May 12th, 2026. Interviews: May 13th to 15th, 2026. Application Results Notification: May 16th, 2026. Travelling Team Selection: June 13th, 2026.

Applicants are evaluated through their application and interview performance, with emphasis on teamwork, communication, problem-solving, and interest in STEM.

Students must commit to regular training sessions, workshops, and team meetings. As the competition approaches, sessions may increase in frequency and intensity.

Participants will gain hands-on experience in robotics, programming, engineering design, teamwork, and global collaboration, along with exposure to real-world problem-solving.

Costs are typically covered through sponsorships, partnerships, and fundraising efforts. Selected students may be required to participate in fundraising and outreach activities.

Team Saint Lucia is coordinated by Orbtronics, in partnership with FIRST Global, to ensure national participation and representation at the competition.

Students often continue into STEM education, leadership roles, competitions, and mentorship opportunities, while becoming ambassadors for robotics and innovation in Saint Lucia.

Interested students can apply by completing the official registration form using the provided link before the application deadline.

This program offers a unique opportunity to represent Saint Lucia on a global stage, develop valuable technical and life skills, and collaborate with peers from around the world to solve meaningful challenges.