Kinjal, three others win gold, silver at global robotics and AI contest

Bangladesh's young innovators have brought fresh glory to the country by winning two gold and two silver medals at the prestigious World Invention Creativity Olympic (WICO) 2026 in South Korea, with Class VII student Kinjal Nag Dibbo emerging as one of the gold medalists.

Kinjal, a student of St Joseph International School, Dhaka, secured the gold medal for his outstanding robotics innovation at the 15th edition of the international competition, held from 16 to 18 July at Seoul National University of Education in the South Korean capital.

The global event brought together nearly 2,000 young inventors and researchers from 26 countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, China, Canada and New Zealand.

A total of 373 innovative projects covering robotics, artificial intelligence and information technology were showcased before an international panel of judges and renowned academics.

Following a rigorous evaluation process, the projects presented by the Bangladeshi team earned significant recognition, highlighting the country's growing potential in science, innovation and emerging technologies.

Besides Kinjal's achievement, students from Dhaka Residential Model College won Bangladesh's second gold medal at the competition.

Muhtasim Rahman of APBn School and College and a team from North South University won silver medals, completing an impressive medal haul for the country.

According to organisers, the Bangladeshi participants earned their places in the international contest after successfully competing in a highly competitive national selection round.

A team of 11 young innovators was eventually chosen to represent Bangladesh at WICO 2026.

The remarkable success has further strengthened Bangladesh's reputation in the global innovation arena and demonstrated the growing capabilities of its young generation in robotics, artificial intelligence and advanced technology.

Kinjal Nag Dibbo is the son of Mukta Dhar, superintendent of police (crime and operations) at the River Police Headquarters, Dhaka.