Robotics Takes Centre Stage as WRO National Selections Return to Sri Lanka

Fueling Innovation: Burhani Serendib School Sets the Stage for STEM Excellence and Global Robotics Recognition

• “The future of robotics is once again taking shape in Sri Lanka, bringing together young innovators in a celebration of technology, creativity, and problem-solving.”
• “The theme ‘Robots Meet Culture’ invites students to explore how technology can interact with and enhance cultural expression, bringing history to life through innovation.”

Sri Lanka’s technological landscape reaches a new milestone as the World Robot Olympiad (WRO) National Selections 2026 return to Burhani Serendib School. With participation nearly tripling to 66 teams, the event highlights a surging national interest in STEM education. Under the theme “Robots Meet Culture,” over 500 attendees will witness young innovators blending tradition with cutting-edge engineering. Supported by government and diplomatic dignitaries, this competition is a vital stepping stone in positioning Sri Lanka as a burgeoning regional hub for robotics and future-ready talent. 

The future of robotics is once again taking shape in Sri Lanka as Burhani Serendib School prepares to host the World Robot Olympiad National Selections 2026, bringing together young innovators from across the country in a celebration of technology, creativity, and problem solving.

The event is scheduled to take place tomorrow, March 28, 2026, from 11.00 a.m. onwards at Qutbi Hall, 2nd Floor, Premier Hall, Burhani Park Complex, 41/4 Glen Aber Place, Colombo 00300. 

The event will be graced by Dr Madhura Senevirathne, Deputy Minister of Education and Higher Education, who will attend as Chief Guest. Also in attendance will be Santosh Jha, Indian High Commissioner, and Sanjeev Arora, Counsellor at the High Commission of India, as Special Invitees, reflecting the importance of this national initiative.

This marks the second consecutive year that Burhani Serendib School has hosted the national level competition, reflecting both the trust placed in the institution and its continued commitment to advancing STEM education in Sri Lanka.

This year’s edition has seen remarkable growth. 

Participation has increased from 27 teams in 2025 to 66 teams in 2026, with more than 500 attendees expected. The rise in numbers points to a growing interest in robotics among students, educators, and parents, with more schools from across the island stepping forward to take part.

The theme for WRO 2026, “Robots Meet Culture,” invites students to explore how technology can interact with and enhance cultural expression. 

Participants are encouraged to think creatively about how robots can help preserve traditions, bring history to life, and create new forms of storytelling. 

It is a theme that highlights how robotics can extend beyond technical applications and play a meaningful role in society.

More than just a competition, the World Robot Olympiad offers students an opportunity to learn through doing. Robotics brings together science, technology, engineering, and mathematics in a way that encourages critical thinking, creativity, and teamwork.

These are skills that are becoming increasingly important in a world shaped by artificial intelligence and rapidly evolving technologies.

At the heart of this initiative is Burhani Serendib School’s vision to go beyond the classroom and create real opportunities for students. By hosting WRO, the school is helping to build a strong foundation for Sri Lanka’s technological future, inspiring young minds to explore innovation and develop practical skills from an early age.

Participants will be supported throughout the competition with guidance from teachers, coaches, and organizers, ensuring that the experience is both structured and enriching. The event itself promises an engaging atmosphere filled with inventive projects, challenging tasks, and a shared sense of curiosity and collaboration.

Looking ahead, the long term vision is to position Sri Lanka as a strong hub for robotics and STEM education. With multiple categories such as Future Engineers, RoboMission, and RoboSports, there is a growing effort to expand opportunities and give students access to a wider range of experiences within the field of robotics.

As the National Selections approach, one message stands out clearly. WRO is not just about competition, but about learning, experimenting, and growing. For many students, it is the beginning of a journey into innovation, where ideas are turned into reality. The event is proudly supported by Platinum Sponsor Third Bay Ventures, with Gold Sponsors Haycarb Pvt Ltd and Adamjee Lukmanjee and Sons. Print Media Partners for the event include Daily Mirror and Lankadeepa.

With its return this year, the World Robot Olympiad continues to open doors for Sri Lanka’s youth, driven by their creativity, curiosity, and ambition to shape the future.