@iLabAfrica Innovation & Research Centre in Strathmore University is hosting a 2-week 3D Modelling, Design, and Printing Course that shall commence on June 17th. The program will provide participants with the right theoretical aspects and the hands-on skills and knowledge they need to become experts in this field.
When you think of 3D printing, you might conjure futuristic technology seemingly reserved for the affluent corners of the world. 3D printing is breaking barriers, becoming increasingly accessible and affordable even in middle-income nations like Kenya. This groundbreaking technology is already weaving its transformative threads into the fabric of the Kenyan economy, and the horizon of its potential is boundless.
For those who might not be familiar, 3D printing is a marvel of modern engineering. It’s a process where three-dimensional objects are brought to life from digital blueprints. The printer reads the file, and then prints layer upon layer of material until the object is complete. This technology has already been harnessed to create an array of items: from life-changing prosthetic limbs to intricate automotive components, and even towering buildings.
3D printing, like many other emerging technologies, is revolutionising the way we manufacture and produce goods. It is no surprise that the industry is estimated to grow to a whopping $32 billion by the end of 2023 according to research conducted by Industry Arc. Already, the number of 3D printers sold worldwide has skyrocketed from just a few thousand in 2014 to over 500,000 by the end of 2019. This is an emerging technology that we cannot help but watch out for.
In Africa, Kenya is at the forefront of adopting 3D printing technology. In the country, 3D printing has been embraced by a variety of industries. One of the most notable applications is in healthcare. Medical professionals are using 3D printing to create custom prosthetic limbs, dental implants, and even surgical tools. This has made healthcare more affordable and accessible, especially for those living in rural areas.
Another industry that has benefited from 3D printing is manufacturing. With the ability to rapidly produce parts and prototypes, companies can reduce their costs and speed up their production times. This has helped to stimulate the economy, as manufacturers can now produce goods at a lower cost, making them more competitive in the global market. 14Trees, a company implementing 3D Printing of houses in Kenya has made great progress, showing the potential of using this technology in building affordable housing in Kenya.
For Kenya, a middle-income country, there are numerous potentials for the adoption and growth of 3D printing technology. The following are some of those:
- Improved Access to Products and Services: 3D printing enables the decentralisation of production, which can increase access to products and services in remote or underdeveloped areas. This can help address gaps in the supply chain and improve access to essential goods and services.
- Job Creation: 3D printing can create new jobs in design, engineering, and manufacturing, helping to spur economic growth and provide new opportunities for entrepreneurship.
- Enhanced Healthcare: 3D printing has the potential to revolutionise healthcare delivery in middle-income countries. For example, 3D printing can be used to produce low-cost prosthetics, dental implants, and other medical devices that are currently in high demand but may be unavailable or too expensive for many people in these countries.
- Customization: 3D printing enables the production of customised products at scale, which can help meet the needs and preferences of local customers. This can help spur economic growth by supporting local businesses and improving access to products and services that are tailored to local needs.
- Environmental Benefits: 3D printing can also reduce waste and energy consumption by allowing for more efficient use of materials and resources, helping to mitigate the environmental impact of production and consumption in these countries.
3D Printing Machine (MakerBot Replicator), Image Courtesy of Freepik
For countries looking to quickly grow economically, 3D printing is a technology they can leverage on to produce quality goods and make them competitive in the global marketplace in different verticals ranging from agriculture to energy, environment to manufacturing, homes and warehouses to transportation among others.
The impact of 3D on the economy of Kenya has been significant, but the growth potential is immense. As technology becomes more accessible, we can expect to see even more innovation and growth in various industries. With government support and investment in the technology, 3D printing could become a driving force behind economic development in Kenya.
In conclusion, 3D printing is a game-changing technology with numerous applications and benefits for a middle-income country like Kenya. From healthcare to manufacturing and education, this technology has already made a significant impact on the economy. With continued investment and support, we can expect to see even more growth and innovation in the years to come.
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3D printing has also made an impact in the education sector. Students are now able to learn about design and engineering while working with 3D printers, strengthening a new generation of innovators.
The two-week 3D Modelling, Design, and Printing Course will cover the following topics:
- Introduction to 3D Printing and Rapid Prototyping
- Different types of 3D Printers
- Parts and functioning of 3D Printers
- Materials used in 3d printing
- Preparing, Slicing and Printing Models
- Demonstration of 3D Printer assembly
- Printer Maintenance and Next Steps – Testing and calibration of 3D Printer
- Use of 3D Software and tools
- Commercial application of 3d printing
With this knowledge, students can create 3D models and prototypes and use 3D printers to create physical objects, pushing innovation and entrepreneurship in the 3D printing ecosystem.
Register for the program here: https://bit.ly/June3DPrinting
For Queries please contact: sgitahi@strathmore.edu or call 0729 479 340
By @iLabAfrica Research and Innovation Centre, Strathmore University.