Humanoid Robots to Support Children in Learning

Belgrade, 23 October 2024 – In collaboration with the Ministry of Education, UNICEF has launched a fundraising campaign for the procurement of humanoid robots – an assistive technology that enhances the quality of learning for children requiring additional educational support, in an inclusive environment alongside their peers.

Humanoid robots in education are high-tech devices that help teachers apply the principles of inclusive education while fully involving students with disabilities. Strategies for using these robots assist teachers in enriching their approach and methods when working with all students, encouraging learning and engagement through interactive methods. With 25 degrees of freedom in movement, the ability to grasp small objects, recognize and reproduce set speech, and engage in basic communication, humanoid robots are an innovative tool for improving communication and learning experiences.

Integrating humanoid robots into the educational process combines the advantages of technology with the competencies of teachers to apply modern methods and approaches to inclusive education. This has the potential to enhance the efficiency of teaching, resulting in better learning outcomes and richer educational experiences.

“By integrating technological resources, teachers can create a dynamic, interactive, and inclusive educational environment. This approach enriches the learning process, boosts children's motivation, and leads to better results for all children in the classroom,” said Tanja Rankovic, Education Specialist, UNICEF Serbia.

The use of robotics in education represents the evolution of traditional teaching methods. UNICEF advocates for a fair and high-quality educational system where all children can learn together with their peers in an inclusive environment. Continuous support for the Ministry of Education over the past years has contributed to the development of a comprehensive institutional and strategic framework for Serbia's education system, empowering schools and teachers to provide quality education for every child.

Together with the Ministry of Education, UNICEF also supports the development of resource centers. Currently, thirteen resource centers across Serbia provide expert support to other schools, teachers, and students.

Assistive technology can significantly influence whether some students are included or excluded, as its availability, combined with modern methods of inclusive education, leads not only to better educational achievements for students but also to their social inclusion and increased chances for further participation in education and employment. The purchase of humanoid robots, which resource centers trained in their use in inclusive environments would make available to schools, supports these goals and creates new support mechanisms for every child.

The cost of one humanoid robot is 1,500,000 dinars.
Donations can be made to UNICEF Serbia's account: 160-666-18
Purpose of payment: 3424 - For every child, EDUCATION