Maciej Mąkosa, a student of the Management and Artificial Intelligence programme at Kozminski University, has qualified for the final of the ICSR 2026 Grand Challenge, an international competition held as part of the International Conference on Social Robotics (ICSR 2026), which will take place in London from 1–3 July 2026.
The project developed by Maciej Mąkosa in collaboration with Sander Blokland from Hogeschool Utrecht has been selected among the six finalist teams chosen by the competition organisers. During the conference, the finalists will present their solutions to an international audience of researchers, designers, engineers, and technology professionals.
The ICSR Grand Challenge focuses on the future of social robotics, a rapidly growing field that combines artificial intelligence, interaction design, engineering, and social sciences. This year’s competition invites participants to develop concepts and prototypes of robots that go beyond laboratory environments – robots capable of collaborating with people, supporting them in everyday activities, and fostering long-term engagement and trust.
The competition showcases projects that explore what the next generation of social robots may look like: acceptable, reliable, user-friendly, and designed to address real human needs. Participants compete in two categories: the Robot Design Challenge, dedicated to innovative concepts, prototypes, and functional solutions, and the Robot Art Challenge, which explores the creative intersection of robotics, art, and culture.
Reaching the final of the ICSR 2026 Grand Challenge offers students and young innovators a unique opportunity to present their work on an international stage and receive feedback from leading experts in social robotics. Finalists are invited to present their projects during a dedicated conference session and to exhibit their work through demonstrations, videos, or installations.
Maciej’s achievement highlights the growing importance of combining managerial, technological, and design competencies in addressing the challenges of the future. The Management and Artificial Intelligence programme at Kozminski University equips students with the skills needed to operate at the intersection of business, emerging technologies, and the responsible use of artificial intelligence. The presence of a Kozminski University student among the finalists of this international competition demonstrates the value of this interdisciplinary approach.
The winners of the ICSR 2026 Grand Challenge will be announced during the conference closing ceremony on 3 July 2026.
Congratulations to Maciej, and we wish him the very best of luck in the final round of the competition.
