Humanoid robot Shuang Shuang graduates from Chinese high school

On July 1, 2025, a humanoid robot named Shuang Shuang graduated from Shuangshi High School in Fujian, China, during the school's 25th commencement ceremony. The event was significant as it showcased the growing emphasis on robotics in China's education and technological development. Shuang Shuang, also known as 'Bright,' participated in traditional graduation activities, including shaking hands with a teacher and receiving a certificate, all captured by cameras and applauded by the audience. This event reflects China's investment in robotics as part of a broader initiative to develop and deploy technology that mimics human abilities. Such robots are increasingly participating in various public events and exhibitions, illustrating a key shift in societal interaction with robotics. In response to similar developments witnessed in other countries, especially the United States, China appears to be in a tech arms race. The U.S. has seen private companies like Tesla involved in the development of humanoid robots, including the upcoming Optimus model designed to perform household tasks and help with child care. Additionally, security robots have begun to gain real-world applications, underscoring the increasing reliance on robotic technology in various sectors. The emergence of Shuang Shuang at a high school graduation serves not only as a symbol of advancements in robotics but also highlights the role these innovations play in shaping future societal norms and interactions. Events like this push the boundaries of traditional education and challenge our conceptual framework of what constitutes a graduate.