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World Robotics Competition: FGC Team Madagascar takes first place

02/11/2025



Despite financial and logistical difficulties, the FGC Team Madagascar 2025 won the gold medal at the ninth edition of the FIRST Global Challenge, held in Panama City from October 29 to November 1, 2025. A remarkable performance for these young Malagasy athletes who managed to stand out among more than 190 countries.

The FGC Team Madagascar 2025 secured a historic victory for Madagascar by winning the gold medal at the FIRST Global Challenge 2025. This international robotics event, often compared to the Olympic Games of science and technology, brought together participants from over 190 countries this year around the theme of "Eco-Equilibrium." The goal was to design robotic solutions that reconcile human development with environmental protection. Supported by organizations including STEM For Good Madagascar and Yas Madagascar, the Malagasy team distinguished itself through its ingenuity and determination, despite significant material constraints. Their performance was praised for the rigor of their work and their team spirit.

A victory achieved through perseverance

The Malagasy national team is composed of four young people aged 16 to 17: Barisoa Andrianina, captain; Andriafeliniony Mandresy Nathan, co-captain, pilot, and spokesperson; Rakotoarimalala Nomen'Aina Hanniel, strategist; and Nomenjanahary Marie Luciana, human player. Under the guidance of their mentor, Manantsiory Tahiry, they worked for several months designing and programming their robot, with the goal of representing Madagascar with distinction on the world stage. Their success demonstrates the potential of young Malagasy people in the fields of science, technology, and innovation, despite limited resources.

In a message posted on the team's Facebook page, the young champions expressed their pride: "Team Madagascar brings home the gold medal thanks to a demonstration of courage and perseverance in achieving our goal, regardless of the difficulties, even when reality didn't meet expectations." They added: "Here in Panama, we've lost count of the number of times we've hugged each other to give each other strength in the face of the world, proudly bearing the name of Madagascar." These words reflect the emotion of a collective journey and the satisfaction of having proudly represented their nation on the international stage.

Encourage international cooperation

Created to encourage international cooperation through science and robotics, the FIRST Global Challenge changes host country each year. Each team must build and program a robot capable of tackling a technical challenge inspired by major global issues. The event aims to raise awareness among young people about global problems and promote collaboration between nations. The 2025 edition, held in Panama City, brought together students from five continents around the theme of ecological balance.

By winning this gold medal, FGC Team Madagascar 2025 has not only made history in the competition, but has also paved the way for a new generation of innovators. Their journey demonstrates that, despite the challenges, passion and determination can lead to excellence.