Family photo – members of the BoD, Office team and TG at the Unibet Arena, Tallinn, venue for the Robotex festival of robotics
Speak to an euRobotics Board member, a Topic Group Coordinator or a member of the Office team who was in Tallinn at the start of December and you will hear the same story – the ERW Focus Event was a great success. Impressive as the programme was itself, it served as an appetiser for Robotex, Tallinn’s famous robotics festival which immediately followed the Focus Event. There is so much to say about both and we plan to share more of the scenes and stories from Tallinn in the January newsletter. For now, here is a personal perspective from Reinhard Lafrenz, Secretary General, who was hugely enthusiastic about what he saw and heard:
Technology, Innovation and Outreach: highlights from an inspiring programme at the ERW Focus Event
The official programme, held at Tallinn University of Technology (TalTech), offered a well-balanced mix of cutting-edge technology sessions and broader outreach-orientated presentations, which created an engaging and diverse experience for all participants.
One of the presentations was on open-source hardware. The programme also addressed defence and security topics, including a thought-provoking talk by a NATO representative, which added an important geopolitical and strategic perspective to the event.
In-depth discussions on robotics and artificial intelligence stood out, particularly the analysis of emerging approaches such as the use of neuromorphic hardware. These sessions offered a deeper understanding of where advanced AI systems are heading and how hardware innovation is shaping the field.
The presentation programme was complemented by hands-on workshops that were both highly informative and genuinely enjoyable. These practical sessions provided valuable insights while encouraging active participation and experimentation.
The Board of euRobotics had the opportunity to join site visits to Metrosert and Microsoft, as well as a guided tour of a university laboratory, providing real-world context and insight into applied research and industrial practices.
A major highlight was Robotex itself, an inspiring festival filled with activities and competitions complemented by hands-on workshops that were both highly informative and genuinely enjoyable. These practical sessions provided valuable insights while encouraging active participation and experimentation.
. The event successfully engaged children and young people of all age groups, including an “entrepreneurship” competition that showcased impressively creative and thoughtful ideas from young innovators.
Alongside the official programme, the event also provided valuable opportunities for informal exchange and dialogue, including meetings with key stakeholders from the political and innovation ecosystem.
Overall, the programme combined technical depth, educational outreach, and community engagement, making it a highly rewarding and motivating experience.”