Young AI talents compete at Singapore's AI drone competition by Google Cloud and IMDA

• 30% increase in participation compared to 2023
• Competition aims to equip students with AI coding skills

The National Youth Tech Championship (NYTC) returned in 2024 with a focus on engaging and inspiring young minds through artificial intelligence. Co-organised by the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) and Google Cloud, the premier youth tech competition attracted 300 student participants this year, marking a 30% increase from last year.

According to the co-organisers, this year’s NYTC placed a stronger emphasis on equipping students with AI coding skills. Training covered relevant AI concepts such as machine learning, generative AI, and identifying deep fakes. 

Reflecting the rapid advancement of technology, participants in NYTC 2024 demonstrated more sophisticated applications of AI than in previous years. They utilised Google Cloud’s Vertex AI to create autonomous drone systems capable of performing complex tasks in various environments, potentially unlocking new use cases for drones across industries. This aligns with the goals of the National AI Strategy 2.0 (NAIS 2.0) to use AI for public good.

The competition took place at IMDA and Google Asia Pacific campuses from 29 June to 19 July 2024, where over six weeks, the participants developed AI skills, learned to code in Python, and gained an understanding of machine learning. Teams were also given drones to take home and participated in virtual training sessions. They later applied their new skills to pilot the drones autonomously, learning to strategise and work as a team throughout the competition.

NYTC 2024 culminated in the finals at Our Tampines Hub, featuring a new "ninja warrior" obstacle course. The top two teams competed in an AI drone derby, showcasing strong AI and problem-solving skills, agility, resilience, and teamwork to navigate their drones through the course autonomously. 

The winning teams were Raffles Institution (first place), Dunman High School (second place), Anglo-Chinese School (Independent) (third place), and Damai Secondary School (fourth place). The winners will also participate in a week-long tech stint at IMDA, including an immersive experience at Google Cloud.

Doreen Tan, assistant chief executive of Strategic Planning and Digital Readiness at IMDA noted that no coding background was required to join, and the students learned quickly, demonstrating sophistication throughout the fully autonomous drone competition. She added that the top four teams will be welcomed at IMDA for further tech exposure.

Meanwhile, Serene Sia, country director, Singapore, Google Cloud said, "NYTC 2024 showcased the potential of AI to inspire young minds and drive innovation.” She further emphasised Google Cloud's commitment to partnering with IMDA to equip Singapore’s youth with the AI skills needed to become the next generation of tech leaders.

NYTC is part of IMDA’s Infocomm Media Clubs programme, which provides a platform for members to learn, excel, and be recognised for their achievements. More information on the programme can be found here.