How school girls at FGGC Sagamu built an AI Robot called ‘Kiki-Saggy’

The project, which involved 10 students and a few staff members, was unveiled to the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Education, David Adejo, in Abuja.

The students, drawn from both the senior and junior classes, said the AI robot project took about seven months, adding that Kiki-Saggy can talk, walk and even gesticulate.

According to them, the robot stands at a height of six feet, weighs 60kg, and has a maximum speed of 10km per hour. When asked about the construction phase of the robot, the innovators explained that they were able to harness the power of artificial intelligence and machine learning. They said ‘Okiki-Saggy’ was their first successful trial as there  

They also attributed their success to the training from their teachers, especially the school principal, Dr Muyibat Olodo, who also doubled as the head of the robotics team, and Coderina.org, a capacity-building organisation that leverages robotics and other emerging technologies to empower young learners and teachers across Africa. 

At the unveiling, Olodo emphasised how technology is aiding innovation and paving the way for a brighter future. She added that the futuristic fields are empowering students to unleash their creativity, problem-solving skills, and technological prowess.

Speaking on the possibilities and advancements that can be made in the future, Olodo noted that innovation is a continuous process, and some subjects taught in colleges are shaping the minds of young learners, equipping them with tools needed to thrive in a world driven by cutting-edge technologies.

According to the girls, the team was faced with technical difficulties, complex coding, financial challenges, hardware issues, hole drilling, and even integration of different components.

However, they pointed out that overcoming the challenges led to valuable learning experiences and rewarding outcomes. They expressed hope that the Federal Government would support the team to make a better version of Kiki Saggy.

The advancement in robotics technology has been noticeable. From more sophisticated sensors and actuators to improved artificial intelligence algorithms, robots are becoming smarter, more capable, indulged, and more adaptable. They can now navigate complex environments, perform delicate tasks with precision, and even learn from their experiences.

Moreover, collaborative robots, known as cobots, are gaining popularity as they can work alongside humans, enhancing productivity and safety in various industries. With ongoing research in robotic industries and development, the future of robotics technology looks promising.

Robots are being designed to understand and respond to human emotions, making them more intuitive and capable of providing personalised assistance. This opens up possibilities for companionship, caregiving, and enhancing overall human well-being.