Moldova's National Robotics Team Returns Home as Double Champions of FIRST Global Challenge 2024

Chișinău, Moldova – October 1, 2024 – Moldova's national robotics team received a hero's welcome home Tuesday after achieving a remarkable double victory at the FIRST Global Challenge 2024 in Athens, Greece. A press conference was held at 4:00 PM to celebrate the team's outstanding achievement and acknowledge their dedication to robotics and STEM education.

The team's mentors, Veronica Ieșanu, Florin Cazac, and Liliana Beleac, expressed immense pride in their students' performance. “These students are incredible,” said Ieșanu. “They have returned home with two gold medals, showcasing their talent and hard work on a global stage.”

Minister of Education and Research, Anatolie Topală, addressed the press conference, highlighting the significance of the team's victory. “This is a special and very welcome occasion," he stated. "The string of medals won by talented young people from the Republic of Moldova continues. We had a particularly prolific sporting season this year, and I am delighted that our young colleagues, passionate about robotics, are contributing to the Republic of Moldova's medal count.” He further committed to recognizing robotics officially as a sport in Moldova, inspired by the team's success.

The Minister also acknowledged the team’s dedication. "We thank you very much for the passion you have shown throughout these years for robotics, for engineering, and for excellence, for the sleepless nights, for the effort you have put in, and for your ability to work as a team and represent the Republic of Moldova at the most prestigious competitions.”

Dumitru Alaiba, Vice Prime Minister and Minister of Economic Development and Digitalization, echoed the Minister of Education’s sentiments, emphasizing the positive impact of the team's success on the entire country. “This is a wave of optimism for the whole country," he proclaimed. "News like this truly energizes the entire society, energizes and inspires those who come after you.” He encouraged the students to continue their pursuit of excellence and promised to create a supportive environment for them in the private sector upon their graduation.

Rodica Miron, representing USAID Moldova, spoke about the long-term support provided by USAID and other development partners for robotics programs in Moldova. "On behalf of USAID and the development partners with whom we co-finance the Technologies of the Future project, which made your trip to Athens possible, but also through the support of USAID and development partners, the Swedish Embassy, the British Embassy, for over 10 years, USAID has supported the robotics program throughout the country," she explained. "We have over 270 clubs. More than 50,000 children have benefited from this support, but you are the top of the top, you are the cream, you are the Olympians, you are the ones who have brought these remarkable results that truly inspire all children and the next generation.”

Florin Cazac, the team’s technical mentor, offered insight into the team’s preparation and journey. “We are Moldova,” he said, “a small country whose journey began in 2017 in Washington D.C.” He explained how the team's consistent dedication and hard work have led them to become the most decorated country in terms of gold medals at the FIRST Global Challenge.

Team members Cristian Romanciuc and Marta Guțu also shared their experiences at the Olympiad, expressing gratitude for their mentors and teammates. Romanciuc, a two-time participant, highlighted the team's growth and development. Guțu, a first-time participant, emphasized the opportunities FIRST Global provides for young people to develop in STEM fields and beyond.

The press conference concluded with an invitation to the media for further interviews with the participants and partners. This double victory serves as an inspiration for future generations of Moldovan innovators and reinforces the country's commitment to STEM education.