Today, 25 students from Gaelscoil na Giúise in Tallaght will join 130 schools from over 30 countries to compete in the Coding4Mandela Tangible World Cup.
Sponsored globally by Amazon, the event marks the official launch of the Amazon Think Big Circle, a global collaboration platform designed to connect and empower Amazon Think Big Spaces worldwide.
The Tangible World Cup is an annual online competition that brings together learners to solve engaging, never-before-seen Tangible Coding challenges. This unique unplugged approach teaches key problem-solving and coding skills using physical grids, tokens, and mobile devices.
Following the launch, the Amazon Think Big Circle will become the central hub for continued collaboration, supporting the co-creation of programmes, peer-to-peer learning, and innovative global events that inspire creativity and build community impact.
Opened in 2022, the Amazon Think Big Space in Tallaght was the first of its kind to launch in Europe, and was created in collaboration with South Dublin County Council (SDCC) and South Dublin Libraries to provide a place beyond the classroom for students to explore and cultivate an interest in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Maths (STEM) and STEM-related careers.
The facilities were thoughtfully designed to ensure that students and the wider community have access to high-quality resources to learn about cloud computing and technology in an equitable way. To achieve this, AWS has donated interactive screens, tablets, VR headsets and other resources to furnish the Amazon Think Big Space, and create an immersive, hands-on approach to learning.
Joanne Reynolds, Regional Community Engagement Manager at AWS in Ireland, said: “The launch of the Amazon Think Big Circle marks an exciting new chapter for the Amazon Think Big initiative, and global learning and collaboration. We are delighted to have Tallaght’s very own Gaelscoil na Giúise representing Ireland among over 130 schools participating in the Tangible World Cup today globally. This initiative demonstrates what’s possible when we empower young people with the tools, space, and confidence to solve problems together, regardless of their location. It’s not just about coding skills, it’s about breaking down barriers, building connections, and inspiring the next generation to think big!”
For the learners in Tallaght, the event is about more than just a competition, it is a chance to connect with peers across the globe, experience the excitement of a live international challenge, and develop skills that will help address both the digital divide and the social divide.
Ellie Nì Mhaonaigh, aged 12, a participant from Gaelscoil na Giúise said: “The coding is like a puzzle, and I love working with my friends as a team to solve the different levels. It was also cool to see schools from other countries.”
The Tangible World Cup is supported as a part of Amazon’s global investment in STEM education and community development, ensuring that students everywhere – from rural villages to major cities – have the opportunity to build skills needed for the future.
For more information:
Website: https://aws.amazon.com/about-aws/global-infrastructure/community-engagement/