VersaPi Programming Challenge 2024 showcases young talent in Mukah

Winners and participants of the Robotic Programming Challenge 2024 (VersaPi).

By DayakDaily Team

MUKAH, July 5: SJKC Chung Hua Balingian emerged as the winner of the Robotic Programming Challenge 2024 (VersaPi) held recently at SK Sungai Duan, Mukah.

Organised by Sarawak Energy Berhad in collaboration with the Mukah District Education Office (PPD), 20 primary schools across the Mukah division participated in the event, showcasing the creativity, technical skills, and teamwork of young students aged nine to 12 years old.

According to a statement by Sarawak Energy, the competition saw students testing their programming and problem-solving skills through a series of robotic activities.

The challenges consisted of two parts: a showcase of innovation videos on capability and creativity of the participants and teachers in assembling the VersaPi Robot Kit; and the physical challenge of coding and track tasks such as ‘Bottle Knockdown’, and ‘360 Movement’ among others.

SK Sungai Duan took second place, while SK Mukah came in third.

SK Datuk Awang Udin and SK Bukit Inkerbai finished fourth and fifth, respectively.

The winners were awarded with cash prizes, trophies, medals, and certificates.

In his opening address, Mukah PPD representative Mohammad Shazwan Seun highlighted how initiatives like VersaPi are crucial in nurturing students’ interest in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields.

“We are proud of all the participants and commend their hard work and ingenuity. This event is a testament to the potential of our students and the bright future ahead,” he said.

Sarawak Energy’s Senior Vice President for Corporate Services, Siti Aisah Adenan, emphasised the company’s commitment to supporting educational programmes that inspire and equip youth with essential future skills.

“Through initiatives such as the VersaPi challenge, we not only cultivate an interest in robotics and programming but also foster critical thinking and collaborative skills among students,” she said.

The Robotic Programming Challenge 2024 offered young minds a dynamic platform for hands-on learning and applying theoretical knowledge to practical scenarios, with the collaboration between Sarawak Energy and Mukah PPD highlighting the importance of industry-education partnerships in enhancing educational outcomes and preparing students for the modern workforce.

Also present at the event were Sarawak Energy’s Senior Manager for Community Relations & Consultation, Mahmood Long; Station Manager for Balingian Power Generation, Daniel Sahari; representatives from PPD Mukah; and other Sarawak Energy staff. — DayakDaily