Singapore launched its first National Education Robotics Competition (NERC) on Thursday, aiming to increase the profile of robotics learning among young Singaporeans.

The goal of the competition is to create a smart fire detector.

Speaking at the event, Minister of State for Education and Trade and Industry Chan Soo Sen encouraged the young enthusiasts to tap into the learning and application of robotics technology.

Another purpose of holding the NERC, according to Chan, is to " render National Education (NE) more accessible and fun for all participants" and increase young people's social awareness and responsibility.

"Our young must be encouraged to harness the power of technology and channel their creative energies for the pursuit of their interests, as well as the betterment of society," the minister noted, adding that the factors which spur the robotics industry also drive Singapore forwards.

National Education is an initiative by the Ministry of Education, which aims to develop national cohesion, the instinct for survival and the confidence in the future among young people in Singapore.

Source: Xinhua