KARACHI (Special Correspondent) – The Pi Space Science Education Center (PSSEC), in partnership with the World Robot Olympiad (WRO) Association and supported by Aramco, is significantly expanding access to robotics and STEM education across Pakistan through the Pakistan Innovation Quest (PIQ). This national initiative is designed to dismantle barriers for marginalized communities, including girls and students with disabilities, who have historically faced challenges such as high costs, geographical isolation, and social exclusion in accessing technological training.

Key Points

• The initiative aims to reach 10,000 students and 300 teachers through 60 robo-starter sprints and six regional competitions.
• Programs are being provided free of charge in public and private schools, NGOs, and institutions for girls across Pakistan.
• The project has already trained over 6,000 students and 518 teachers across cities including Karachi, Lahore, Hyderabad, Gujranwala, and Kasur.
• Aramco’s support includes donating 100 robotics kits to under-resourced schools to ensure the sustainability of STEM education.

Expanding STEM Education Access

Through the Pakistan Innovation Quest, the program establishes a clear academic trajectory, allowing students to transition from initial robotics exposure to developing creative solutions for real-world issues. By participating in regional competitions, students earn the opportunity to reach the World Robot Olympiad Pakistan platform, fostering a pipeline of future technological leaders.

Inclusive Robotics Training for All

PIQ demonstrates a commitment to inclusive education by providing equal opportunities to students of all abilities. Notably, the program has engaged students at the Deaf Reach School, where specialized sign language interpreters assisted learners in building their own robots. This hands-on approach allows students to move beyond passive observation, empowering them to become active innovators and problem solvers.

Zartaj Ahmed, CEO and Co-founder of PSSEC and National Organizer of WRO Pakistan, emphasized that potential is universal, but opportunities are not. She stated that the initiative aims to reach children who have never touched a robotics kit, girls who have never envisioned themselves as engineers, and students with hearing impairments who possess the right to innovate without barriers.

Impact and Future Outlook

To date, nearly 60 educational institutions have joined this growing network. The project maintains a goal of over 40 percent female participation. Hussein A. Hanebazazah, Vice President of Communications Operations and Corporate Citizenship at Aramco, noted that through the Aramco STEM Global Program, the company is investing in future innovators by turning curiosity into practical ability.

Successful participants from regional rounds will present their projects at the PIQ national exhibition to government representatives and international stakeholders. This initiative aligns with broader efforts to modernize education, similar to recent advancements in digital systems like the Health Ministry Launches Care1166 Digital Complaint System in Islamabad, reflecting a nationwide push toward digital integration and empowerment.

About Pakistan Innovation Quest

Pakistan Innovation Quest (PIQ) is a nationwide robotics and innovation initiative supported by the Aramco STEM Global Program. It is implemented by PSSEC with the support of the World Robot Olympiad Association, providing a comprehensive and accessible path for students to learn robotics and compete on national and international stages.

About Pi Space Science Education Center

Pi Space Science Education Center (PSSEC) is a premier institution for STEM and robotics education and serves as the National Organizer for the World Robot Olympiad in Pakistan. The center develops educational curricula, trains educators, and enhances the capacity of academic institutions to connect youth with globally recognized innovation platforms.