Monsanto Company, a multinational agrochemical and agricultural biotechnology corporation and a leading producer of genetically engineered seed, announced a $600,000 three-year commitment to support STEM learning opportunities for students through sponsorship of FIRST Championship, a youth focused competitive robotics event.
St. Louis, Missouri hosts the renowned event in the world of competitive robot design youth programs this year, scheduled to take place from April 22 to April 25, according to a press release.
FIRST, or For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology, is a non-profit that aims to encourage students to participate in STEM. The championship requires teams of students to design and build their own robots to perform tasks, providing real-world engineering experience.
Monsanto Vice President of Global Contributions and Employee Engagement will kick off the opening ceremony of the championship at the America’s Center in downtown St. Louis.
According to the press release, Monsanto’s hopes to spark young people’s interest in STEM through its sponsorship, emphasizing STEM as essential for meeting the needs of the future. In 2014, Monsanto employees reached thousands of students in St. Louis with STEM events and information and the mentorship of three area FIRST Robotics teams.
Monsanto also carries out its support of STEM education and participation through partnership with youth organizations and scholarship programs to help students learn skills to aid agriculture and improve the future of agriculture.
