Nguyen Nhat Thien, a student in Class 7A at Phuc Son I Primary and Secondary School in Dai Son commune, secured the top prize after competing against thousands of contestants from around the world.

Nguyen Nhat Thien, his family and teacher at International Robotics Competition 2025.

The International Robotics Competition 2025 took place in January 2026 at Jiangyin Senior High School in Wuxi city, Jiangsu province, China. Competing against more than 2,800 participants from multiple countries and territories, Thien delivered an outstanding performance to claim the gold medal.

Judges praised Thien’s project for its advanced programming and innovative features. His robot was equipped with enhanced sensors capable of detecting obstacles and overcoming barriers efficiently, allowing it to complete tasks and reach the finish line quickly.

Prior to his international success, Thien had already shown strong potential in robotics. In November 2025, he won a third prize at the national finals of the fifth Vietnam Robotics Innovation Competition, held in Da Nang city.

The international award reflects the determination and passion for learning of the young student from a mountainous area. Thien has long excelled in natural sciences and has shown a particular interest in technology, sensors, electronic circuits and microchips.

From an early age, he enjoyed assembling Lego models, which later became a stepping stone for building more sophisticated robots as he expanded his knowledge of physics and computer science.

His passion grew further under Vietnam’s new general education curriculum, which emphasizes STEM-based learning. The integrated approach combines knowledge from multiple subjects and encourages students to apply classroom lessons to real-life situations, fostering practical learning and hands-on experimentation in schools.

Applying what he learned in class, Thien used knowledge about sensor systems and circuit boards from physics lessons along with programming and algorithmic thinking to assemble and operate his robot.

He initially built simple robots, then gradually upgraded them with additional features. By adding light and color sensors, he enabled the robots to follow paths, avoid obstacles, climb slopes, move forward and backward, and even lift objects on simulated testing platforms.

Thien is particularly interested in humanoid robots designed to support industrial production, healthcare and household services. Keen to keep up with technological trends, he has also explored ways to integrate algorithms and artificial intelligence into robot design and operation.

Born in Thuoc hamlet in Dai Son commune, Thien grew up in a family where both parents are teachers. His family has encouraged his curiosity and passion for science since childhood.

He is also inspired by his older sister, who previously earned a scholarship to study at a prestigious university in South Korea. Her achievements have motivated him to continue pursuing academic excellence and exploring new knowledge in the years ahead.

Thien attended the international competition with the support of his teacher and family members, who accompanied him during the event.

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