THE 16 FINALISTS WHO WILL ASCEND THE PYRAMID - UMT

THE 16 FINALISTS WHO WILL ASCEND THE PYRAMID: SYMBOLICALLY AND PHYSICALLY

After a careful and challenging selection process due to the high level of competition, 16 teams have secured their spot in the grand finale on April 27, at the Pyramid of Tirana, where four major prizes will be awarded.

An extraordinary chapter has closed, and a new one has just begun for Albania’s youngest robotics talents.

Over the course of two intense days, one of the most exciting and unforgettable competitions for Albanian youth took place: the RoboTech Semifinals. Under the spotlight of innovation, surrounded by robots, sensors, applications, and screens showcasing daring solutions, over 180 high school students from 9 cities across Albania gave their all in a challenge that tested not only their technical skills but also their spirit.

It all began more than two months ago, when students from Tirana, Durrës, Fier, Elbasan, Vlora, Shkodra, Korça, Gjirokastër, and Pogradec decided to embark on a journey of innovation. Inspired by everyday realities, these young people envisioned robots that could improve life, the environment, and services for their communities. Over the span of 8 weeks, they built, experimented, learned, and faced real-world technology challenges, all distilled into a few minutes of presentation before a specialized jury.

The RoboTech Finalists Representing the Spirit of Innovation Are:

Gjimnazi Sami Frashëri, Tiranë – V Sense / Gjimnazi Partizani, Tiranë – Gaia Bot

Gjimnazi Petro Nini Luarasi, Tiranë – Crop Bot

Gjimnazi Andon Zako Çajupi, Tiranë – Ekko

Gjimnazi Ismail Qemali, Tiranë – Aero Care / Post-E

Gjimnazi Qemal Stafa, Tiranë – Pyroguard

Shkolla “Tirana Jonë” – Zoo Bot

Gjimnazi “28 Nëntori”, Shkodër – PathMate

Gjimnazi “Dhaskal Todri”, Elbasan – SmartGuard AI

Gjimnazi “Asim Zeneli”, Gjirokastër – Chrono Guide

Gjimnazi “Nehemia”, Pogradec – PyroGuard

Gjimnazi “Flatrat e Dijes”, Fier – Lumen

Gjimnazi “Leonik Tomeo”, Durrës – Adriatik Bot

Gjimnazi “Naim Frashëri”, Durrës – Eco Bot

Gjimnazi “Ali Demi”, Vlorë – OOGWAY

An Arena of Emotions and Challenges

The semifinals unfolded as a marathon of presentations and technical trials, giving life to a unique atmosphere at UMT, where youthful emotion, innovative ideas, and professionalism were felt in every corner of the venue.

Nervous hands, teary eyes , whether from joy or disappointment, the students displayed admirable maturity and enthusiasm. It was more than a competition; it was a story of courage, dreams, and building something meaningful.

RoboTech has become more than just a contest, it’s a national movement to empower youth in the fields of technology and innovation. It’s an investment in Albania’s future, a call to believe in the exceptional talent that only needs a chance to shine.

The Grand Finale at the Pyramid of Tirana will be more than just an event, it will be a celebration of technology, creativity, and the future. Everyone is invited to be part of this inspiring story.

An Esteemed Evaluation Jury in Technology and Communication

A crucial element of the competition was the jury, composed of renowned figures in the fields of technology, artificial intelligence, robotics, and communication:

· PhD, © Evis Plaku: “There are no words to describe the emotion of seeing a 16-year-old thinking like an engineer of the future. The robots presented were not just gadgets, they were real solutions to real problems. RoboTech is turning into a powerful movement for technology and education in Albania.”

· Dr. Sonila Daiu: “Throughout the presentations, I felt like I was attending an international innovation forum. What impressed me most was not only the technical professionalism but also how these young people conveyed their message ,with passion, confidence, and social sensitivity.”

· Dr. Igli Hakrama: “Our youth have exceeded all expectations. We saw robots interacting with the environment through AI, detecting dangerous situations, even assisting in healthcare. The future is here ,and they are its architects.”

· Mr. Endi Kalemaj: “I saw more than just technology ,I saw civic engagement, community solutions, ideas for mental health, the environment, and mobility. RoboTech is shaping new leaders ,not only technically skilled but also ethically conscious.”

· Mr. Marlin Nano: “It’s unbelievable to witness such a high level of robotic engineering from high school students. This shows that the potential is there ,it’s up to us to support it, guide it, and empower it.”

With professionalism and empathy, the jury evaluated not only the technical outcomes but also the creativity, community impact, and presentation quality of the students.

Award Prizes: First Prize: €2000; Second Prize: €1500; Third Prize: €1000; People’s Choice Award: €500