Five local high school students will represent the Marshall Islands an international robotics competition later this month.
The Majol Matrix robotics team is getting ready for the FIRST Global Challenge in Panama from October 27 to November 2.
This international robotics competition brings together student teams from over 190 countries to collaborate, compete, and innovate around real-world issues. This year’s theme, Eco Equilibrium, challenges participants to design solutions that balance environmental sustainability with technological advancement.
“For a low-lying atoll nation like the Marshall Islands, this theme couldn’t be more relevant,” said the Public School System in a release. “Rising sea levels, coastal erosion, and climate change are not distant threats — they’re daily realities. Majol Matrix’s participation is not just about robotics; it’s about raising awareness and being part of a global conversation on how technology can help protect vulnerable communities like ours.”
PSS is sponsoring the public-private high school student participation.
Students participating in Major Matrix include:
- Dyson Katlong, Life Skills Academy
- Tebina Hicking, Marshall Islands High School
- Rhea Nathan, Majuro Baptist Christmas Academy
- Elizabeth Jarom, Laura High School
- Demetrius Peren, Seventh Day Adventist.
Demetrius and Rhea are juniors; the other three are seniors.
Two mentors are accompanying the team: PSS Team Leader Patsy Glad and USP mentor Kritish Chand.
The team was formed through a special selection process, with students chosen by their school principals for their creativity, leadership, and passion for STEM — science, technology, engineering and math. It’s an exciting milestone for RMI and the students who will participate.
Robotics here and globally is becoming a powerful tool for education and youth empowerment.
The team had a chance to show off their skills during Manit Day celebrations in September. At the event near Alele Museum, they hosted a fun and interactive demonstration of robotics. Kids got to control robots in a lively game of makeshift soccer — sparking curiosity, laughter, and maybe even a few future engineers.
Want to follow their journey? Check out all the students’ videos and updates on the Marshall Islands Majol Matrix Facebook page. You’ll find team intros, behind-the-scenes moments, and plenty of robot action.
PSS recognized the sponsors and supporters making the trip possible. This support is powering more than just machines — it’s fueling dreams.