Two LYBOTICS teams have represented Libya at international FIRST Tech Challenge Premier Events in Canada, marking the first participation in Canada for both teams.
LYBOTICS Shadow Wizards, Team 30706 from Tripoli, participated in the Canada Cup of Robotics – Niagara 2026 from June 13 to 16. The event brought together outstanding robotics teams for several days of competition, collaboration, technical learning, and cultural exchange.
LYBOTICS Castle, Team 18448 from Sabha, represented Libya at the Canadian Rockies Premier Event @ KDays in Edmonton, Alberta, from July 24 to 26.
Each Libyan delegation consisted of 16 team members who travelled thousands of kilometres to present their work, compete alongside international teams, and gain valuable experience within the global FIRST community.
One National Program, Two Libyan Cities
The participation of teams from Tripoli in northern Libya and Sabha in southern Libya reflects LYBOTICS’ commitment to ensuring that access to robotics and STEM opportunities is not limited by geography.
Both teams earned their international opportunities through their participation in the FIRST Tech Challenge Libya program. Five Libyan teams qualified for international Premier Events during the season, with Shadow Wizards and Castle becoming the two teams able to represent Libya in Canada.
Their journey demonstrates what becomes possible when young people receive access to robotics equipment, committed mentors, structured competitions, and opportunities to engage with peers from around the world.
More Than a Robotics Competition
International participation is about more than robot matches.
Throughout their experience, students strengthened their technical knowledge, teamwork, communication, leadership, problem-solving, and ability to work under pressure. They also introduced other participants to Libya and built connections with young innovators from different countries.
For many of the students, this was their first opportunity to travel to Canada and participate in an international Premier Event.
These experiences can shape how young people see themselves, their country, and their future. A student who begins by building a robot can grow into an engineer, entrepreneur, researcher, mentor, or community leader.
Building More Pathways for Libyan Youth
LYBOTICS continues to build pathways that connect young people across Libya with meaningful STEM education and international opportunities.
However, sending teams abroad requires significant resources, including robotics equipment, transportation, accommodation, registration, training, and logistical support. Many qualified teams are unable to benefit from international opportunities because the required funding is not available.
Supporting LYBOTICS means helping more young Libyans move from local classrooms and community spaces to national competitions and global platforms.
The journeys of Shadow Wizards and Castle show the talent, determination, and potential that exist across Libya. With stronger partnerships and sustained support, many more teams can follow.
From Tripoli and Sabha to Canada, Libya’s next generation of innovators is already taking its place on the international stage.