DUBLIN – The Irish national team secured a significant achievement at the FIRST Global Challenge, often referred to as the ‘Robotics Olympics,’ held in Panama City, USA. The team, which finished in a historic eighth place in the international competition, included two students of Malayali origin: Joel Immanuel and Amal Rajesh.
The Robot Olympiad, which took place from October 29 to November 1, 2025, in Panama City, saw participation from over 600 teams representing 190 countries worldwide. Achieving the eighth position in the final round is a historic success for the Irish team.
The Malayali students’ contribution to this feat adds an extra layer of pride for the community.
- Joel Immanuel, a Leaving Cert student, is the son of Immanuel Thengumpally, Managing Director of Spice Village Restaurant & Catering Group, and Reetha Immanuel, a Nurse Manager, who reside in Lucan, Dublin. Joel has previously won the prestigious BT Young Scientist and Technology Award.
- Amal Rajesh, also a Leaving Cert student, is the son of Rajesh, a Computer Engineer, and Betsy, a Nurse Manager, who live in Liffey Valley, Lucan.
The FIRST Global Challenge is an Olympic-style international robotics competition held in a different country each year, aiming to foster the growth of the next generation of engineers and scientists. Its primary objective is to promote the greater development of youth in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) fields, which Ireland prioritizes.
The Irish delegation was trained under the supervision of top robotics experts in the country’s most advanced robotics and mechatronics laboratories. Both Joel and Amal expressed their delight at the opportunity to be part of Ireland’s most brilliant young engineers and showcase their abilities.
The team members conveyed their gratitude to the people of Ireland. The national team received a grand welcome upon their arrival at Dublin Airport recently.
