Pi Space Science Education Centre Expands Access to Robotics Across Pakistan

The Pi Space Science Education Centre (PSSEC) is broadening access to robotics and STEM education throughout Pakistan, with a focus on removing obstacles faced by underprivileged and marginalized youth. Partnering with the World Robot Olympiad (WRO) Association and supported by Aramco, the Pakistan Innovation Quest (PIQ) initiative aims to engage over 10,000 learners and 300 teachers through more than 60 RoboStarter Sprints, six regional competitions, and a National Showcase.

The program creates a clear trajectory for students, from initial exposure to robotics, to crafting innovative solutions for real-world challenges, to competing at regional levels, and advancing towards the World Robot Olympiad Pakistan platform. Aramco's involvement has facilitated free training in public and private schools, economically disadvantaged areas, NGO-backed institutions, and girls' schools.

Notably, PIQ demonstrates the importance of inclusive STEM education, as evidenced by the participation of deaf students at Deaf Reach School, who received hands-on robotics training with sign language interpreters and trainers. PSSEC CEO and WRO Pakistan National Organizer, Zartaj Ahmed, emphasizes that "Talent is universal. Access is not—and that is the divide Pakistan Innovation Quest was created to close."

The initiative's RoboStarter Sprints integrate practical robotics training with the WRO Future Innovators project cycle, allowing students to earn WRO certification while teachers receive professional development to maintain robotics education post-training. PIQ has already trained more than 6,000 learners and 518 teachers, impacting cities such as Karachi, Lahore, Hyderabad, Gujranwala, and Kasur.

The program targets at least 40% female participation and plans to donate 100 robotics kits to under-resourced institutions to foster continued learning.

Aramco's Vice President of Communications Operations & Corporate Citizenship, Hussain N. Hanbazazah, highlights the company's commitment to STEM education as an investment in future innovators, problem-solvers, and leaders. The initiative will culminate in the PIQ National Showcase, where regional winners will present their solutions to school leaders, government officials, STEM stakeholders, and international guests.

Ultimately, PIQ empowers young Pakistanis to view themselves not merely as consumers of technology, but as creators of the future.