GTU Brings Robotics Passion to Life

May 19, 2025 - GTU Office of Press and Public Relations

The 6th International Butterfly Robot Olympics, organized this year at Gebze Technical University (GTU), brings together technology with art, music, and volunteerism. Initiated by student efforts, the event showcases both competition and solidarity.

Technology and Creativity United
The 6th edition of the International Butterfly Robot Olympics, traditionally organized by the GTU Robotics and Automation Club, was held on May 17–18, 2025, at the GTU Congress and Cultural Center. Conducted under the university’s coordination and supported by the Ministry of Youth and Sports’ University Student Clubs Cooperation and Support Program (ÜNİDES) and TEKNOPARK Istanbul, the Olympics gathered young future engineers who will shape the future of robotics and automation in Türkiye.

Held annually since 2018 during the spring semester, the competitions aim to support innovative projects in the fields of robotics, artificial intelligence, and automation and to encourage young talents. This year’s event also drew intense interest, with nearly 650 individual and team participants from all educational levels across Türkiye and abroad. Participants experienced a campus environment rich in both technological production and social interaction.

Colorful Moments in Competition Categories
Participants competed individually or in teams with robots they designed in six different categories: Mini Sumo, Line Follower, Futra, Sultan's Meadow, Free Category, and Come-Design-Produce. In addition to the competitions, the event featured art and music performances, creative workshops, and surprise guest speakers.

Compared to last year’s 479 teams and 1,441 participants, this year saw even greater participation. Projects from participants representing 25 different provinces and international locations received great acclaim, and prizes totaling ₺120,000 were awarded. Over 100 volunteer GTU students actively took part in organizing the event.

Rector Highlights the Importance of Self-Confidence
In his opening speech, GTU Rector Prof. Hacı Ali Mantar emphasized the voluntary efforts of student societies and the social impact of such activities. Mantar stated that these events not only develop technical skills, but also foster a sense of responsibility towards society.

“With events like this, our students develop the self-confidence to say, ‘we can do this too,’ when they touch a robot. Our society needs this.” said the Rector, thanking all students, educators, and supporters involved in the event.

“This Event Is the Work of Our Students”
GTU Robotics and Automation Club Assistant Advisor Assoc. Prof. Fatma Karaoğlu-Ceyhan emphasized that the Olympics were brought to life through the voluntary work of students. Ceyhan highlighted that academics only served as mentors, and that this process imparted not only technical knowledge, but also values like teamwork, responsibility, and dedication.

“This event is not ours; it is our students’ achievement. We merely stood by them and believed in them,” she said.

“Robots Competed, Everyone Won”
In his speech, Club President Tuğber Buğra Çatay noted that the Olympics started with a small idea and turned into a great success. He underlined that the event was not just a competition, but also a platform for friendship and sharing.

“Robots will compete, but we will all be winners,” he concluded.

A Meeting of Future Creators
Throughout the two-day event, participants enjoyed the excitement of both producing and sharing in an atmosphere where technology and art were intertwined. Hosted by GTU, the Olympics served as an example of large-scale student-led initiatives and highlighted the potential of young people.

Competition Results

Come-Design-Produce

Designing of a scenario-based robot within 24 hours without initial materials

• 1. Gönen Robot Team (Balıkesir) – 10,000 TRY

• 2nd: ODTÜROBOT (Ankara) – 6,000 TRY

• 3rd: Robistim 1 (Istanbul) – 4,000 TRY

Free Category

Innovative solutions to social and technological problems

• 1st: Mwm Team - Electric wheelchair (Enka High School) – 10,000 TRY

• 2nd: Enkatech - Physical therapy device (Enka High School) – 6,000 TRY

• ODTÜ Robot - Smart helmet (ODTÜ) – 4,000 TRY

• Best Design: Süper Robotçular (Istanbul)