The dancing Hexapod may appear as a fun invention of modern technology, but students from Tešanj reveal that its creation involved overcoming numerous challenges with the guidance of their mentor, professor Mujo Zeničanin. Initially, the students thoroughly studied robotics theory with mentoring support from STEMI. Subsequently, they transitioned to hands-on work using equipment provided through the "Schools of the Future" program under the EGG2 project.

"Our main project as a team was to create a dance, or rather a robot choreography set to specific music. Of course, getting to the actual dance involved many steps— assembling the robot itself, calibrating the motors, connecting the motors to the motherboard," explains Talo.

Student Eldar Bošnjak adds that a key part of the project was creating an app for remote control of the Hexapod. The young students from Tešanj also decided to challenge themselves with an additional task of creating a robotic arm, which enhanced their 3D modeling skills.

"Our mentor, along with other participating teachers, dedicated their time fully to us and always allowed us to express our opinions, ideas, and suggestions, which gave us additional motivation in our work," said Bošnjak.

During their work, the students went through several workshops where they acquired knowledge in microcontroller programming, C++ programming, mobile app development, 3D modeling, and 3D printing. Teachers guided them through all areas of robotics until the final creation of the Hexapod.

"Each area was highly interesting to the students, and they actively proposed ideas and presented solutions. There was a lot of playfulness and laughter, and we truly enjoyed ourselves. The ultimate goal was to strengthen students' robotics skills and create a positive working environment. The students demonstrated impressive knowledge, and some are already wondering if they can continue practicing even during holidays," said mentor Mujo Zeničanin.

The students emphasize that the project helped them not only get closer to robotics but also connect with their peers from other cities and the teaching staff. They significantly improved their teamwork and communication skills. Teachers noticed that among the students participating in the program, there were also introverted children who strengthened their social skills through workshops. Through STEM education, students not only enhance technical skills but also develop crucial social skills such as teamwork, innovative and critical thinking, preparing them for a collaborative and dynamic environment in their future academic and professional careers.

His schoolmate Abdurahman Subašić adds that the lack of funding and equipment is the biggest challenge faced by young people interested in robotics and new technologies, which is why programs like "Schools of the Future" offer them opportunities for hands-on experience.

Therefore, this program also included younger generations of elementary school students to introduce them to robotics. Hundreds of elementary school students spent the entire school year assembling and programming Hexapods through extracurricular activities.