Affordable robots wow local pupils

Educator Chris Clay in action with students at Mangakahia Area School.

Educator Chris Clay and innovation proponent Ranui Sustainable met more than 70 Northland school students last week to show them how to design, build, programme and even race robots.

Mr Clay visited Bream Bay College and Mangakahia Area School. His mission was to prove that building a robot requires innovation and resourcefulness above expensive equipment.

"For the last few years I've been playing with all kinds of robotic bits and bobs and exploring how and why kids might create with them. During this time I've developed an appreciation for how expensive it is for schools to invest in robotics kits," said Mr Clay.

Now Mr Clay has developed a kit that lets children build and code their own robot for less than $30. The critical components needed to make a robot can be sourced cheaply, opening the opportunity to learn robotic science to everyone.

"The notion that science and technology is expensive and something for 'gifted' kids is fundamentally wrong," Mr Clay said. "I'm not trying to sell robots. I just wanted to show that it could be done."

Auckland-based, Mr Clay welcomed the opportunity to bring his robots to Northland.

"The north is a place where resourcefulness and innovation can go a long way. Given the opportunity to be innovative, create and solve problems for themselves, it's amazing what students can deliver. "

Ranui Sustainable chief executive Martin Knoche said in organising the event he was impressed with the huge interest shown by schools and businesses in Northland for robotics, science and innovation.

"Northland produces its fair share of innovative Kiwis and we hope more young people in the region consider careers in sustainable innovation."

The free Kiwi Innovator Series workshops are open to all and designed to encourage Northland youth to think seriously about directing their enthusiasm towards careers that will have a positive effect on the planet.

Go to www.ranui.org for a short video snapshot of Chris Clay's visit to Northland.