The 2025 FIRST Robotics Competition Shanghai Regional has returned to the city after a six-year hiatus, inspiring youth in science and technology.

The three-day event starting Friday has brought together nearly 1,000 young competitors from 43 teams — including three international teams.

Held at East China Normal University, the event centered on this year's theme "Reefscape", challenging participants to address environmental issues through robotics. Teams have to design and program robots to transplant artificial coral and collect simulated algae, simulating marine ecosystem restoration processes.

"Every year, we design challenges around real-world themes — from oceans to healthcare to transportation," said Chris Moore, CEO of FIRST, a global nonprofit organization that runs robotics programs. "We're in 111 countries worldwide, and China represents one of our most prominent markets. We want to stimulate more interest in STEM and robotics across the country."

Teams have been preparing since January when the challenge was announced. The competition features qualification matches on Saturday and elimination rounds on Sunday. Robots operate autonomously for 15 seconds before a 2-minute-and-15-second remote-control period. Top teams will advance to the world championship in Houston, Texas, next month.