PTC Trust in collaboration with Professor Lim of School of Engineering, Waikato University organised a series of hands on robotic events for our rangatahi and Pasifika students across NZ. An authentic speech by STEM Pacifika and Maori club representative Maximo Lockington provided a realistic understanding of the pathway and journey ahead for these emerging adults and future leaders.

Taumauruni students received practical understanding of how these mechanical devices can be programmed to follow our instructions. They learnt about processing units, sensors, motors, actuators and how these can be put together to move, flash lights, make noises, pick up rubbish and put it down.

The Waikato University team led rangatahi expertly through the design, development and programming of robots. These steps include:

• gathering information

• identifying unique aspects of the design which must be met

• determining possible and alternative design solutions

• planning the blueprint and designing tangible structures

As rangatahi become more familiar with the world of mechatronics, new avenues of learning are forged and opportunities for future career pathways opened.