LOGAN students will be able to take part in the world’s largest robotics competition thanks to a grant awarded to council.
Logan mayor Luke Smith said the First Lego League robotics grant would be used by the libraries to provide advanced coding and robotics events for children and adults aged 10 and older.
“Our libraries currently provide a wide range of free technology, robotics, electronics and coding workshops for all ages and abilities, but this will help build awareness and familiarity throughout the city with the Lego League robotics platform,” Cr Smith said.
“Currently, not many schools in Logan are enrolled in Lego League competitions.
“This grant will help Logan City Council Libraries develop the necessary skills in our local community, with the aim that further down the track our libraries can partner with local schools to take part in Lego League competitions and coding showcases.”
Logan City Council is one of six councils across the state to be awarded the grant.
Innovation Minister Leeanne Enoch said the First Lego League robotics grants were offered jointly by the State Library of Queensland and First Australia to public libraries and Indigenous Knowledge Centres to help communities engage children in emerging technologies.
“These grants will provide young people in the regions with the opportunity to get hands-on learning how to code a robot, and will open their eyes to the possibilities that technology will allow us in the future,” Ms Enoch said.
“This is another initiative to demonstrate our commitment to breaking the digital divide and ensuring people across Queensland are not left behind.
“These grants will support public libraries to build capability in the evolving field of coding and robotics, and will inspire the imaginations of tomorrow’s leaders in science and technology.”
State Librarian and CEO Vicki McDonald said libraries were creative and stimulating spaces, and had an important role to play in building digital literacy skills.
“Learning to use a Lego Mindstorms EV3 robot will help young people develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills, encouraging them to find creative solutions through a fun, practical, learn-by-doing approach,” Ms McDonald said.
For information, visit a Logan library or firstaustralia.org/programs/first-lego-league
