#Japan #Robotics #VEX Robotics #Kanagawa #GIA Jr.

Introduction

The Global Innovator ACADEMY (GIA) has launched a groundbreaking program aimed at students aged 14 and under, named GIA Jr. This initiative focuses on STEM education and robotics, utilizing the globally recognized VEX Robotics platform. Its main goal is to nurture the next generation of innovators ready to challenge themselves on the world stage by engaging in robotics design, programming, and team development.

The Concept Behind GIA Jr.

The core philosophy of GIA Jr. is reflected in the slogan, "Robotics is a Sport." This engaging educational program is designed to cultivate students' creativity, spirit of challenge, teamwork, and international awareness through the thrill of robotics competitions. Unlike simple programming classes, GIA Jr. offers a real-world challenge aimed at developing essential life skills.

The Need for GIA Jr.

The inception of GIA Jr. arises from GIA's existing commitment to promote robotics and international education. Historically, GIA has focused on nurturing students eager to compete on an international level. The motivation behind GIA Jr. is to create an environment where students can begin challenging themselves from an early age. Despite the growing interest in programming and STEM education in Japan, many learning approaches are still heavily centered on knowledge acquisition, leaving minimal opportunities for practical experience through teamwork and innovation. Globally, however, robotics competitions are gaining popularity akin to sports, enabling children to learn skills such as technology, communication, and leadership cohesively.

GIA Jr. strives to bring this inspiring concept to children in Japan, acting as a junior version of GIA. The program encourages not only robot construction but also strategic planning with peers, engaging with teams worldwide, and experiencing the iterative process of learning from failures before realizing their ideas. GIA Jr. ensures that beginners feel safe to participate and can progressively engage in ongoing learning, team activities, and competition.

GIA Jr. Program Overview

1. Online Garage Team Startup Course:
- This course teaches participants how to initiate and run a robotics team. Participants completing the course can access discounts on robot kit rentals.
- Topics include team formation, operational roles, and the pathway to competition.

2. Online VEX Learning Support:
- Assistance with learning methodologies using VEX Robotics, plus tips on harnessing educational materials widely utilized worldwide.
- Focus on effective learning strategies, robot design, programming, competition understanding, and strategy planning.

3. National Community and Networking Events:
- Opportunities for students to connect with peers across the country through exchanges, sharing information, and participating in joint practices, both online and in-person.
- Events include national networking gatherings and joint practice sessions.

4. Local Team Activities:
- Real-world team activities within various communities to facilitate collaborative robot building and training aimed at participating in competitions.

Collaboration in Kanagawa

In the Kanagawa and Shonan area, GIA Jr. will collaborate with FIVE by DOHSCHOOL, the largest VEX classroom in Japan, to establish the competitive robotics team SHONAN VEX TEAM for the U14 age group. A free trial and orientation session is set to take place next month at the Shonandai Civic Center.

Free Trial Session Details

• - Date: June 28 (Sunday)
• - Location: Shonandai Civic Center
• - Time Slots: 18:00-19:00 and 19:30-20:30
• - Requirements: None
• - Capacity: 8 participants per session

Interested parties can sign up via the GIA Jr. application form.

Application Guidelines

Eligibility Criteria:

• - Students currently in 3rd grade to 2nd year of junior high school as of 2026
• - An interest in robotics, crafting, or programming
• - Enjoyment of teamwork activities
• - An eagerness to challenge themselves
• - All skill levels welcomed, regardless of school affiliation.

Target Audience:

• - Individuals eager to take on robotics competitions
• - Those aspiring to reach the world championship
• - Students wishing to grow alongside peers nationwide
• - Enthusiasts wanting to form their own teams
• - Individuals ready to challenge themselves while having fun.

Participation Fees

Participation in the program is generally free, although some local team activities or special courses may incur a fee. Specifics will be shared during the orientation. Please note that participants will need to cover the cost of the robot kit:

• - Kit Used: VEX IQ Education Kit (2nd generation, Item: 228-8899)
• - Rental: Estimated monthly fee of 3,000 to 4,500 yen (tentative). One-time purchase costs about 121,000 yen.

Participation Steps

1. Submit an application through the website.
2. Attend the orientation session (scheduled for June 28, with on-demand access following).
3. Join the Slack community.
4. Commence the program.

Contact Information

Operational Planning: Non-profit Education Circle
Inquiries: Contact Form Link