ISD rolls out Carnegie Mellon-aligned robotics programme

International School Dhaka (ISD) has announced the launch of a Robotics and AI Pathway for students in grades four to twelve, aligned with the globally recognised Carnegie Mellon Robotics Academy.

Considered one of the most advanced school-level robotics initiatives in Bangladesh, the programme aims to equip students with technical and problem-solving skills, preparing them for emerging fields such as artificial intelligence, automation, and robotics.

The classes will begin on 14 February 2026 and will be held every Saturday from 9:00 am to 10:30 am in 90-minute sessions. This year marks the third consecutive time ISD is hosting the programme, reflecting the school's continued emphasis on robotics and AI education.

The pathway offers a structured, multi-year academic journey, enabling students to progress from basic coding and logical thinking to designing intelligent autonomous systems, combining theoretical learning with hands-on application.

Speaking about the initiative, ISD Director, Steve Calland-Scoble, said, 'The global economy is rapidly moving towards artificial intelligence and design thinking. By introducing robotics and AI learning at an early stage, we are equipping our students with the skills required to thrive in a technology-driven world.'

George Carrington, Programme Instructor of the Carnegie Mellon Robotics Training Programme at ISD, said the initiative goes beyond technical skills. 'Through this programme, students not only build robots, but also develop critical thinking and problem-solving abilities. It helps them understand how robotics and AI relate to real-world applications and prepares them for future challenges and opportunities,' he said.

Sharing her experience, Rania Ahmed, a grade twelve student at ISD, said the programme has transformed the way students think. 'We have learned to code robots, which is exciting, but more importantly, we have learned how to solve problems and work effectively as a team,' she said.

The programme follows Carnegie Mellon Robotics Academy methodologies used by leading schools and universities worldwide. Students in grades four and five can enrol in the beginner-level LEGO Robotics programme for Tk15,000. Grades six and seven can join the intermediate-level VEX IQ programme for Tk20,000, focusing on coding structures and sensor-based decision-making.

For grades eight to ten, the advanced intermediate VEX EXP programme, priced at Tk20,000, allows students to build autonomous robots using real-time data and feedback systems. Students in grades eleven and twelve can join the advanced-level VEX V5 and REV Robotics programme for Tk25,000, where they will engage in professional-level robotics, electronics, and introductory AI concepts.

Upon successful completion, all participants will receive a certificate from the Carnegie Mellon Robotics Academy.