New Delhi: Rockwell Automation, Inc. (NYSE: ROK), the world’s largest company dedicated to industrial automation and digital transformation, is sponsoring 12 schools across major cities in India to participate in the World Robot Olympiad (WRO), organized by the India Stem Foundation (ISF). The initiative is part of Rockwell’s larger corporate social responsibility (CSR) goal of promoting science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education for underprivileged students – helping to equip them for the future.

Arvind Natu, founding member and senior scientist of Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER) Pune, was the guest of honor at the WRO event. He interacted with participants and shared valuable insights into his contribution to STEM activities through IISER.

Speaking about the initiative, Dilip Sawhney, managing director, Rockwell Automation India, said: “Rockwell is committed to supporting communities and bringing a positive impact in all that we do. We recognize the significance of STEM education in shaping India’s future and we want to help prepare students with the hands-on knowledge that will empower them to tackle the challenges of tomorrow.”

“I am delighted to collaborate with our valued partner, India STEM Foundation, to help fortify this exceptional initiative. We look forward to many more collaborations to take our shared vision of a smarter and equitable India forward,” he added.

38 teams from between 30 and 35 schools participated in each WRO event. Two Rockwell Automation sponsored teams won their regional rounds in the junior and senior categories. These teams have secured their seats for the National Championship which will be held in September 2023.

The participants include students from Dnyanganga English medium school – Pune, Air force School, Viman Nagar – Pune, Lion M. P. Bhuta Sion Sarvajanik School – Mumbai, Sheth Chunilal Damodardas Barfivala High School Andheri – Mumbai, Swami Vivekananda Vidhya Kendra – Bengaluru, Rajkiya Pratibha Vikas Vidyalaya – Delhi, DTEA School – Delhi, Kendriya Vidyalaya Fort William – Kolkata, and Kendriya Vidyalaya Ballygunge – Kolkata.

The year 2023 also marks Rockwell Automation’s 40 years of continuous operations in India. Since 1983, the company has helped customers and partners become more resilient, agile, and sustainable by delivering industrial automation and digital transformation solutions.