Belfast student invents robot to solve Rubik’s Cube at 12

A 13-year-old student from St Malachy's College in north Belfast has successfully created a Lego robot capable of solving a Rubik's Cube. Ruarcc began developing his puzzle-solving prototypes at the age of 12, inspired by the launch of the school's creative digital technology hub. This initiative aimed to enhance digital skills among students and was supported by local organizations, including the Belfast Charitable Society. Ruarcc's robot operates using an impressive 5,000 lines of Python code and utilizes color sensors to decipher any configuration of the Rubik's Cube. Initially, his teacher, Clare McGrath, was skeptical about the robot's functionality, but Ruarcc's persistence led to a working model that amazed both peers and educators. The project reflects the school's commitment to fostering creativity and innovation among students. The creative digital technology hub was established following a proposal by the school principal, Paul McBride, who envisioned a space for students to explore digital technology. The hub has since become a resource for multiple post-primary schools in the area, aiming to engage around 6,000 students and over 100 staff members in developing their digital competencies. Ruarcc's achievement not only highlights his individual talent but also underscores the importance of educational initiatives that encourage hands-on learning and problem-solving. His aspirations for a future career in the IT industry, particularly as a software engineer, demonstrate the potential impact of such programs on young innovators.