Organised by the University of Hong Kong (HKU), INTEL China Limited (INTEL), and China Education Technology Investment Limited Corporation (CETIC), the "INNOVATIASIA: AI EVERYWHERE Robotics Esports Invitational 2024 (GBA)" competition was successfully concluded on August 17. The event was fully supported by Cyberport as one of the key programmes of its "Digital Entertainment Leadership Forum 2024" (DELF 2024).
The competition featured three major tournaments – "Sea, Land, and Air" – including the "Underwater Robot Sumo Tournament", "Robot 3x3 Rugby Tournament", and "Drone Dance Competition", attracting a total of 19 talented teams from different secondary schools, with one team travelling to Hong Kong from Vietnam to join the event. Participating teams competed in different rounds of matches according to the themes which were uniquely designed to test students' abilities in logical thinking, programming, innovation, teamwork, and communication.
In the "Sea: Underwater Robot Sumo Tournament", students were tasked to demonstrate strategic planning and robotic skills as they maneuvered their sumo robots to push opponents out of a designated underwater zone. For the "Land: Robot 3x3 Rugby Tournament", students were required to strategically manipulate their robots in a simulated rugby match to traverse the field and deliver the ball to the opposition's touchdown area to score points, testing their teamwork, strategic planning, and robotic control skills. Meanwhile, the "Air: Drone Dance Competition" showcased the students' creative and programming skills as they choreographed and executed a synchronised aerial performance using drones.
Three winning teams from each category were awarded prizes, with the Champion teams having the opportunity to visit Intel's Greater Bay Area Innovation Center.
Officiating at the award presentation and closing ceremony were Professor Bennett Yim, Director of Undergraduate Admissions and International Student Exchange at HKU; Dr. Tim Kaiser, Head of School of the Canadian International School of Hong Kong; and Rev. Brother Thomas Lavin F.S.C., Supervisor of La Salle College.
Professor Bennett Yim was very pleased to witness the overwhelming response from the competing teams. He said: "It has been truly inspiring to see the diverse array of ideas and the dedication of participants in applying advanced technology and artificial intelligence. This event has not only been a platform for students to show their potential but also an opportunity to promote interactive STEAM education and AI applications."
"As HKU is committed to fostering an open environment that encourages technological innovation and educational excellence, through this event, the University aims to inspire students' interest in advanced technology, developing their creativity and problem-solving skills in today's digital world, and nurturing them to be the next generation of proactive and enthusiastic learners." Professor Yim added.
CETIC, INTEL's partner in promoting Digital Readiness programme and Intel Skill for Innovation programme in Asia, believes that Esports competition is one of the exciting activities that enable students to explore, embrace, and engage their dreams in the digital era. The company focuses on providing STEAM and STEM education and competition in Asia. "Our aim is to groom responsible, innovative, and global leaders through this appealing approach," stated Ms. Lena Foo, Director of the company.
Cyberport, the flagship of digital technology and a key incubator for entrepreneurship in Hong Kong, is the co-sponsor of the competition. Mr. Eric Chan, Chief Public Mission Officer of Hong Kong Cyberport Management Company Limited, affirmed: "Cyberport has been dedicated to nurturing technology talents and supports STEAM education initiatives to cultivate more future innovators. We fully support the AI EVERYWHERE Robotics Esports Invitational as one of the key programmes at DELF 2024. The competition, designed to intersect Esports and Edutainment, provides a platform for participants to embrace technology, particularly in coding and AI, while fostering innovation and creativity. Cyberport will continue to align with Hong Kong's future innovation and technology development, supporting STEAM education initiatives and working together with educators and different partners to cultivate more future innovators, further solidifying Hong Kong's position as an international innovation and technology hub."
Canadian International School of Hong Kong, a sponsor of the event, has been thrilled about this event as it aligns with its focus on technology, innovation, and 21st-century skills. Dr Tim Kaiser said: "This event encourages students to develop digital literacy, coding skills, and problem-solving confidence. As an Intel Ambassador School, participating in this competition reinforces our commitment to preparing students for success and empowering them to showcase their talents and push boundaries in this increasingly tech-driven world."
Extending gratitude to the organizers for hosting this remarkable competition, Rev. Brother Thomas Lavin F.S.C. reflected: "It is truly an honour for La Salle College to participate in such an innovative and inspiring event. This competition provides an opportunity for our students to delve into the fascinating world of robotics, applying their knowledge and creativity to solve real-life challenges."
The competition is a testament to HKU's dedication to promoting interactive STEAM education and AI applications, as well as its devotion to keeping pace with the development and changes in society when designing its programmes and curriculum. Recent initiatives include the establishment of the School of Computing and Data Science which offers a wide range of programmes in Computing, Data Science, Statistical Sciences, and Artificial Intelligence. The University will explore further collaborations with industry partners and looks forward to continuing its efforts in motivating and inspiring the youth to embrace the rapidly changing landscape of AI technology.
