By Sophia Baragatti
Today, the ITKAN Innovation Hub opened its doors to 15 refugee students from the Ma'ruf community for a hands-on STEM camp — for many of them, their very first encounter with robotics. It marked the start of a four-week camp designed to teach them the essentials of robotics, from building their first mechanisms to programming them to life.
From the moment they stepped into the Innovation Hub, the energy was electric. Guided by ITKAN's student mentors, the visitors dove into building and programming — asking questions, testing ideas, and lighting up as bins of parts became working machines.
“It was heartwarming to see their eyes light up and smiles widen as they walked into our 24,000-square-foot STEM facility, with many experiencing robotics for the very first time.”
The camp's initiation was powered by ITKAN's student mentors, who volunteered their time to give back through this community project — sharing what they love and welcoming a new group of young engineers. More than a robotics lesson, it was a reminder that the door to STEM is open to everyone.