Crowdfunding makes possible a Goan Student Conquer the World of robotics
STEM Education Trust support makes it possible to organise Codeavour in Goa and crowdfund the travel expenses.
Introduction:
In an inspiring display of talent and perseverance, Vedang Anay Kamat from Saraswat Vidyalaya, Mapusa, and Usha Kumawat from The Progress High School, Panjim, have etched their names in global robotic history. These young prodigies secured top honours at the prestigious AI Robo City Challenge in Dubai, part of Codeavour 5.0 International. Competing against participants from over 60 nations, Vedang and Usha showcased exceptional talent and determination on the world stage, bringing glory to Goa.
The Journey Begins:
Their journey to international fame began with the Codeavour 5.0 Goa regionals, hosted by Saraswat Vidyalaya on March 10, 2024. The vibrant corridors buzzed with excitement and innovation as 34 dynamic teams from 15 schools across Goa participated, showcasing their skills in AI, AR-VR, Machine Learning, Coding, and Robotics using PictoBlox. The outstanding performances of Vedang And Usha at the regional level secured them places in the national finals, along with 21 other teams, held at Alpine Convent School, Gurgaon, on April 6, 2024. SET helped organise the Codeavour in Goa by partial funding.
National Triumphs:
At the national level, Vedang Anay Kamat secured the second rank, impressing the judges with his advanced coding and robotics skills. Usha Kumawat, along with her team members Nitin Yadav and Yuvraj Dhabolkar, secured the third rank in the Senior category, demonstrating exceptional competence in creating autonomous robots in a very short amount of time. These achievements paved the way for their participation in the Codeavour 5.0 International competition in Dubai.
Crowdfunding and Community Support:
Usha Kumawat’s journey to Dubai was made possible through a crowdfunding campaign that raised over one lakh rupees. The campaign saw generous contributions from Goans and well-wishers worldwide, ensuring Usha could compete on the international stage. Notable contributions came from the Madhav, Madavi, and Mahendra Memorial Charitable Trust, Hotel Manoshanti, and Rotary Club of Panaji, among others.
Vedang’s journey was also supported by his school and the local community, highlighting the collaborative spirit and commitment to nurturing young talent in Goa. Saraswat Vidyalaya, under the guidance of dedicated teachers and supportive parents, ensured Vedang had all the resources and encouragement he needed to excel.
Challenges and Overcoming Adversity:
Usha’s path to international competition was fraught with challenges. From issues with her passport to financial constraints, she and her mentor, Mrs. Maya Kamat, faced numerous obstacles. Despite these difficulties, their determination and the support of the community saw them through.
Passport and Documentation Hurdles:
Usha’s journey was initially hampered by discrepancies in her documents. Her birth certificate, school records, and Aadhaar card all had errors that needed correction. The process of getting her passport issued involved multiple visits to government offices, where they encountered bureaucratic challenges. With persistence and the help of her mentor, Mrs. Maya Kamat, Usha eventually secured her passport just in time for the competition.
Financial Constraints and Crowdfunding:
The financial aspect of Usha’s journey was another significant hurdle. Her family, with limited means, could not afford the expenses for the trip to Dubai. A crowdfunding campaign was initiated, with the support of various community members and organizations. Contributions poured in from the Madhav, Madavi, and Mahendra Memorial Charitable Trust, Hotel Manoshanti, and Rotary Club of Panaji, among others. The campaign raised over one lakh rupees, covering the travel and accommodation expenses for Usha and her mentor.
Community and School Support:
The community support extended beyond financial contributions. Local MLAs, including Kedar Naik and Delilah Lobo, assisted with funds. Saraswat Vidyalaya and The Progress High School played crucial roles in supporting their students, providing resources and moral support throughout their journey. The dedication of teachers like Mrs. Maya Kamat, who not only mentored Usha but also managed the crowdfunding campaign and documentation issues, was instrumental in their success.
Spotlight on Success at Codeavour 5.0:
We are thrilled to highlight the outstanding achievements of this year’s competitors from Goa, Usha Kumawat and Vedang Anay Kamat.
Usha showcased exceptional skill and innovation to secure top honours in the Senior category of Track 2 of the competition. Her story is truly inspiring, reflecting the determination and hard work that propelled her to success.
We are also immensely proud to mention that the Codeavour team recognised Maya Kamat as Mentor of the Year. Her dedication to fostering talent and empowering young innovators like Usha and Vedang has been instrumental in shaping their success. Maya’s role is a testament to the critical impact of mentorship in the development of young talent in tech.
International Victory:
On May 4th and 5th, 2024, Vedang and Usha competed at the AI Robo City Challenge in Dubai. Vedang emerged as the Global Champion in the Junior category with an impressive score of 340 points, completing all 11 tasks within five minutes. His robot’s advanced machine-learning capabilities and precise task execution left the judges and spectators in awe. Usha won the gold medal in the Senior category, demonstrating exemplary skills in coding and robotics. Her journey, marked by resilience and determination, inspired many young minds in Goa and beyond.
Recognition and Future Aspirations:
Their success has not only brought them global recognition but has also inspired many other students in Goa to pursue robotics and STEM education. Mrs Maya Kamat, who mentored Usha, was honoured with the Champions Change Maker Award for her extraordinary efforts and dedication. The recognition from various educational and community leaders further highlighted the importance of nurturing young talent and providing them with opportunities to excel.
Community Impact and Acknowledgments:
The achievements of Vedang and Usha have had a significant impact on their local communities. Their success has shown that with the right support, dedication, and perseverance, young students from any background can achieve great heights. The collaborative effort of teachers, parents, community members, and organizations underscores the importance of community involvement in educational success.
Conclusion:
The triumph of Vedang Anay Kamat and Usha Kumawat at the Codeavour 5.0 International competition is a testament to their hard work, creativity, and resilience. Their journey highlights the importance of community support and the impact of crowdfunding on realizing dreams. As they return to Goa with their accolades, they carry with them the hopes and aspirations of many young minds inspired by their achievements. Their story is a beacon of what can be achieved with determination, support, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.
