Salvadoran youth talent will be showcased on the international stage as two teams prepare to represent El Salvador at the World Robotics Olympiad (WRO) in Singapore from November 26 to 28.

The first team, “Alphabots,” includes Juan Pablo Torres, Celeste Samayoa, and Andrés García from the Game Changers Academy. The team earned the right to compete in the RoboMission Elementary category after winning first place in the national robotics competition held in August. Their challenge involves designing robots capable of autonomously solving tasks on a themed board.

“Thanks to Juan Pablo, Celeste, and Andrés, we will demonstrate that innovation and knowledge have no borders,” said Sergio Cuéllar, director of Game Changers Academy. Notably, Celeste Samayoa is one of the few girls competing in Salvadoran robotics programs, highlighting the importance of inclusion in STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics) fields. Walberto Flores, a member of El Salvador’s WRO organizing committee, emphasized, “Encouraging female participation in these disciplines is crucial for the future, as greater diversity of thought leads to more innovative solutions.”

In addition to Alphabots, three students from Highlands International School—Alessandra María Loyola (11), Ximena María Mayorga (12), and Juan Carlos Martínez (12)—will participate in the Future Innovators Elementary category. Their prototype aims to improve astronauts’ quality of life in space with a lighter, more practical, and engaging exercise machine. This initiative is supported by the National Agency for Artificial Intelligence (ANIA). Mario Flamenco, director of ANIA, confirmed, “Every Salvadoran student who demonstrates dedication and passion in this field will have our support.”

The World Robotics Olympiad will bring together thousands of students from over 90 countries. El Salvador’s dual representation reflects the talent, creativity, and vision of Salvadoran youth, highlighting the nation’s growing presence in global robotics and innovation.