Unique World Robotics (UWR) welcomed astronaut Sunita Williams with a small but thoughtful gift during her visit for STEM Talks, organised with the Kerala Literature Festival. As she opened the package on stage, her reaction said it all. Inside was a palm-sized robot puppy named Gorby, after her much-loved dog, whose name is also tattooed on her hand.
A Personal Touch Meets Robotics
The robot Gorby responds with cheerful barks when its head is gently stroked, drawing smiles from the audience. The moment followed Sunita Williams’ talk on how artificial intelligence is reshaping the future of robotics. UWR founder and CEO Bansan Thomas George said the gesture reflected the creativity and spirit of Kerala’s startup ecosystem. UWR is registered under the Kerala Startup Mission.
Focus on STEM Education
Hosted by UWR as part of the STEM Talks initiative, Sunita Williams stressed the importance of setting up STEM robotics labs and conducting competitions to spark innovation among students. UWR outlined its ambition to train one million students over the next five years by establishing about 500 STEM labs across India.
Global Robotics Platforms Launched
In the presence of Divya S. Iyer, IAS, Sunita Williams inaugurated an International Community for FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology). Through this platform, UWR will prepare students for global competitions including FIRST LEGO League, FIRST Tech Challenge, FIRST Global Challenge and the World Robot Olympiad. She also launched an advanced robotics lab and training centre spanning 5,000 square feet in Kochi and Bengaluru, along with specialised training programmes.
Students Showcase Innovation
The event also highlighted student talent. Guransh from Indus International School, Bengaluru, a national-level winner at the World Robot Olympiad, presented his project to Sunita Williams. His team, UWR Bhoomi Heroes, demonstrated their Moon Rover project, offering a glimpse into the next generation of robotics innovation.
