Ho Technical University has commissioned an ultra-modern Fab Lab, a state-of-the-art makerspace designed to foster innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurship among students and the community. The 250,000 Euro lab, commissioned on Wednesday, September 18, 2024, was established as part of an ongoing collaboration with the Rhine-Waal University of Applied Sciences, Germany and funded by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD).
Prof. Kingsley Nyarko, Deputy Minister for Education in-charge of TVET, unveiled the facility on behalf of the sector Minister and Guest of Honour for the occasion. It formed part of the 6th Vice-Chancellor’s Distinguished Lecture, delivered by Prof. Dr. Mathias Kleinke, a Professor of Environmental Technology at Rhine-Waal University of Applied Sciences, Germany.
Speaking on the theme, ‘The Role of Technological Innovations in Technical Universities: Lessons from the Rhine-Waal University of Applied Sciences, Germany,’ Prof. Kleinke underscored the crucial role of Fab Labs in promoting practical learning, innovation, and technological advancement. “Fab Labs bridge the gap between academic knowledge and industry demands, solving societal challenges,” he noted.
He indicated that the setting up of Fab Labs in tertiary institutions would enhance students’ practical skills and facilitate groundbreaking research and innovation, while encouraging interdisciplinary projects, integrating engineering, design and entrepreneurship.
‘Fab Labs are makerspaces that encourage creativity and stimulate innovation among not just students and faculty but also among people of all-walk of life, as they converge to test their ideas, using array of cutting-edged tools such as 3D printers Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machines and laser cutters,’ he added.
The German scholar was therefore optimistic of the impact of the HTU Fab Lab on the University and the larger society, as it plays a vital role in shaping the future of innovation and education among young people in Ghana.
The Deputy Minister for Education speaking on behalf of the sector Minister and Guest of Honour, Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum lauded the initiative, highlighting its potential impact on the hands-on training of students in the TVET sector. He reiterated government’s commitment to TVET education, citing initiatives such as retooling TVET institutions, establishing STEM schools, and introducing STEMNOVATION programmes to develop requisite human capital to drive the country’s industrialization agenda. He commended HTU and the German partners for complementing government’s effort in that regard.
Vice-Chancellor Prof. Ben Honyenuga commended the German partners, Rhine-Waal University and DAAD, for their collaboration, noting the Fab Lab would engender creativity among young people. He said the commissioning of the facility has once again make HTU a shining star among its peers. “The Fab Lab HTU represents our commitment to practical education, research, and innovation,” Prof. Honyenuga emphasized, adding that, “We aim to equip students with skills to thrive in a rapidly evolving technological landscape, fostering innovation, entrepreneurship, and collaboration between academia, industry, and government.”
He further disclosed that the facility would be made available to basic and high school students to whip up their interest in STEM-TVET education and training.
Ms. Lena Leumer, Country Director of German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) applauded the organic partnership between Rhine-Waal and HTU, offering immense opportunities for exchange programmes and joint projects such as the Fab Lab. She said the agency would continue to provide funding support for such academic endevours.
The Fab Lab HTU is equipped with cutting-edge tools, including 3D printers, Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machines, and laser cutters, providing a dynamic ecosystem for prototyping and testing innovative ideas.
The event was attended by HTU Management, faculty, and students, as well as representatives from Rhine-Waal University and DAAD. Also present were, students from second cycle schools including, TVET institutions, and Reps from Trade Associations.
