The Robotics Showdown Competition 2025 (ROSCO ’25) was held on 07th August 2025 at General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University (KDU), showcasing remarkable energy, innovation, and technical expertise. Jointly organized by the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE) KDU Student Chapter and the Electronics, Robotics, and Innovation Club (ERIC), twenty-two undergraduate teams competed in a series of challenging tasks that tested creativity, programming skills, and engineering expertise. The competition required fully autonomous robots to complete four challenges: advanced line following, wall following without line guidance, inverted line following on a black surface, ramp navigation requiring stable ascent.
The judging panel included Dr. Eranga De Silva, Senior Lecturer in Mechatronics and Robotics at the University of Moratuwa; Captain (Retd.) Udaya Dampage, Senior Lecturer Grade I at KDU; and Ms. Prashani Wickramasinghe, Probationary Lecturer at KDU. Their combined expertise ensured fair and insightful evaluations.
The event began with an official welcome by Janidu Balasuriya, President of IMechE KDU. Throughout the competition, the atmosphere was electric as teams navigated tight corners, overcame unexpected obstacles, and showcased innovative programming solutions, all while live commentary kept the audience engaged.
Team Autobotics emerged as the champions, winning certificates and a cash prize of LKR. 20,000. The First Runner-Up title went to Team ????????, who received certificates and LKR. 15,000, while Team Quadtrack secured Second Runner-Up with LKR. 10,000. All other teams were awarded certificates of participation acknowledging their dedication and skill.
ROSCO ’25 was more than just a competition; it was a celebration of innovation, problem-solving, and the KDU spirit. From the organizers’ tireless work to the participants’ passion, the event reflected the immense potential of the next generation of engineers. As the closing ceremony wrapped up, the countdown to ROSCO ’26 had already begun.
