Curro learners build the future at World Robot Olympiad 2025
From wearable technology to space-ready robotics, Curro learners showcased their talent at the national WRO finals, earning recognition for innovation, teamwork, and real-world problem solving.
Curro schools have once again proven their strength in innovation, with learners earning top spots at the World Robot Olympiad (WRO) 2025 national finals held this month.
Among the highlights was Curro Aurora’s Team Foresight, who secured second place in the Future Innovators senior age group. The team designed a smart wearable necklace, equipped with a forward-facing camera. The device helps visually impaired people by detecting obstacles and giving real-time feedback, making daily navigation safer and easier.
Read more: Regional Robotics competition highlights South Africa’s STEM talent
Another standout was Curro Waterfall’s Team Visionary Vortex, who placed second in the Future Innovators junior age group. Their robotic arm, created to support astronauts on space missions, can handle a variety of tasks, such as plant growth, rock analysis, medical support, and waste disposal, aboard the International Space Station.
“These results show the depth of talent and commitment across our schools,” said Jurie de Jager, curriculum lead at Curro Holdings. “From junior to senior age groups, learners are showing that they can compete with the best in South Africa, and in the world.”
Also read: Introducing coding and robotics in the foundation phase
Curro’s achievements at WRO 2025:
• Curro Waterfall (Visionary Vortex): Second place – Future Innovators (Junior),
• Curro Aurora (Team Foresight): Second place – Future Innovators (Senior),
• Meridian Pinehurst: Seventh place – Future Innovators (Junior),
• Curro Durbanville High School: Seventh place – Robo Mission (Junior), and
• Grantleigh Schools: Ninth and tenth place – RoboSports.
This year, nearly 900 teams competed across South Africa, with Curro making a strong impact. The group entered 141 teams from 31 schools, involving 368 learners. At the national finals, 17 Curro teams, from 11 schools, participated in four categories.
The WRO 2025 theme: The Future of Robots, encouraged learners to design solutions to real-world challenges. Projects, like the wearable necklace and robotic arm, showed how robotics can improve daily life on earth and beyond.
“WRO is not simply about building robots; it’s about preparing our learners for the challenges of tomorrow,” De Jager added. “They refine their skills in robotics and programming, while building teamwork, resilience, and creativity. These are the qualities that open doors to studies, careers, and opportunities in science, technology, engineering, and mathematic fields.”
The WRO remains one of the most exciting global platforms for young innovators, pushing participants to combine coding, engineering, and problem-solving in a playful yet rigorous way.
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