Young innovators, aspiring scientists and technology enthusiasts will have an opportunity to explore robotics, artificial intelligence, coding and creative learning when BigSpark by Gateway hosts its annual Robotics Competition & STEAM Activity Day 2026 on Sunday, 18 October, at the BMICH in Colombo.
First introduced in 2019, the initiative has developed into a platform where children can experience Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics (STEAM) beyond the traditional classroom, combining hands-on learning with creativity, teamwork and friendly competition.
Previous editions have attracted more than 500 children from schools across Sri Lanka, while this year’s event will place greater emphasis on Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, Coding and emerging technologies, giving young participants an opportunity to understand how technology is shaping the world around them.
A key attraction will be an interactive robotics experience presented by SLT-MOBITEL, the Technology and Digital Innovation Partner. Children will be able to engage with robots including a dancing robot and a chess-playing robot, offering a practical and entertaining introduction to robotics and AI.
The programme will also feature a Virtual Reality experience, allowing children to explore immersive digital environments and discover how VR technology can be used for learning, creativity and interaction.
At the centre of the event will be the BigSpark Robotics Competition, bringing together students from national, private and international schools. Children from as young as six will compete across junior and senior categories, using their knowledge and creativity to take on robotics challenges.
The competition is designed to encourage logical thinking, problem-solving, teamwork and innovation, while giving students an opportunity to demonstrate their technological skills in a supportive environment.
However, children do not need to enter the robotics competition to participate in the wider event.
The STEAM Activity Day is open to children aged four to 14, with a range of interactive experiences covering Robotics and AI, STEM and Coding, Drama, Dance, Storytelling and Language, as well as Arts and Crafts.
This wider approach is an important part of the initiative. While children are being introduced to the technologies likely to shape their future, they are also encouraged to develop creativity, communication, confidence and imagination.
The event therefore aims to show that preparing children for the future is not simply about teaching them how to use technology. It is also about helping them become curious thinkers, confident communicators, creative problem-solvers and innovators.
For parents and educators, BigSpark also offers an opportunity to see how learning can take place through experimentation and discovery. Introducing children to robotics, coding and artificial intelligence at an early age can help them become more comfortable with emerging technologies, while hands-on activities allow them to understand concepts by creating, testing and solving problems for themselves.
At the same time, the inclusion of performing arts, storytelling and creative activities reflects the importance of developing well-rounded young people rather than focusing only on technical skills.
The event is organised by BigSpark by Gateway, with the University of Queensland, Australia, as Principal Partner, and SLT-MOBITEL as Technology and Digital Innovation Partner.
The partnerships reflect a broader commitment to encouraging innovation, future-focused education and greater exposure to the skills young people will need as technology continues to transform education and the workplace.
The BigSpark Robotics Competition & STEAM Activity Day 2026 stands out as a positive initiative that gives children the freedom to experiment, ask questions and learn by doing.
For the young participants taking part at BMICH, the day will be about more than winning a robotics competition. It will be an opportunity to discover new interests, build confidence and experience the excitement of turning an idea into something they can see, test and create.
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