RomeCup 2025: Easy Talk Machine is the winning project in the NonniBOT category
An intuitive, inclusive and deeply human device: it's called E.T. - Easy Talk Machine is a project by the Ettore Majorana high school in Pozzuoli (Naples), winner of the NonniBOT category at the RomeCup 2025. Created in collaboration with the University of Naples Federico II, the device was designed to facilitate communication between frail people and caregivers who speak different languages, overcoming language barriers in care and assistance contexts.
The idea was born in the classroom
It all started with a conversation among students: many shared family experiences related to home care. This revealed a real problem: caregivers who do not speak Italian well, resulting in difficulties in communicating with elderly people or people with disabilities. This led to the key question: 'Can we use technology to help those experiencing this difficulty?
A simple, concrete, empathetic solution
The answer is ET Machine, not an app but a physical object with a simplified interface: two flags to select the language, a “SPEAK” message, and a voice that instantly translates the content.
Behind the device is a well-designed technological heart:
- directional microphone for recording
- Raspberry Pi with Python software
- translation via ChatGPT API
- clear speech synthesis via audio speakers
Teaching that changes perspectives
‘Today we participated in the RomeCup in the Nonnibot category, presenting the ET Machine, a real-time conversation translator. Our commitment has been rewarded and it has been a great satisfaction. We are delighted,’ say Denis Villino and Matteo Rosa. ‘Technology can serve humanity if it is born from listening and care. This project has proven it to us.’
The students were not mere executors, but protagonists of the creative process. They combined technical skills and social reflection, learning to design for the common good. Their motivation? To create something that “really serves a purpose”. The work was coordinated by teacher Paolo Borrelli, with the support of researcher Alessandra Rossi from Federico II University.
Benefits for families and future prospects
With ET Machine, families can regain peace of mind: their loved ones can express their needs and requests without barriers. The project can be replicated and adapted to other contexts:
- schools with foreign students
- hospitals and clinics
- migrant centres
- domestic environments
