The American University of Bahrain in partnership with Go Fab 3D launched its newest addition to the growing portfolio of its innovative state-of-the-art facilities; the AUBH D-Lab, in an inauguration ceremony at its premises in Riffa.
The ceremony was attended by Her Excellency Dr. Shaikha Rana bint Isa bin Duaij Al Khalifa, the Secretary-General of the Higher Education Council (HEC) and Deputy Chairperson of HEC Board of Trustees, AUBH President, Dr. Bradley J. Cook; AUBH Chief Operating Officer, William D. Hurt; AUBH Provost, Dr. Jeff Zabudsky; senior guests; and the AUBH Community.
The partnership with Go Fab 3D advances innovation and creativity on the AUBH campus while providing students with the necessary practical skills to thrive in a fast-paced, digital world.
The AUBH D-Lab provides students with the opportunity to digitally design and rapidly fabricate solutions as they work on live projects directly with professionals in a variety of fields. Students, industry, and researchers have access to state-of-the-art 3D printing, reverse engineering machines including 3D scanning, and other digital manufacturing tools supported by talented designers, engineers and programming on the AUBH Campus. The lab offers a shared collaborative space for students to complete their coursework while gaining direct work experience and promoting engagement with the industry.
The AUBH D-Lab is armed with the largest number of 3D manufacturing machines in Bahrain including professional full-colour 3D printers, high-definition multijet plastic 3D printing, professional 3D scanners, laser cutters, and vacuum forming machines, among other tools.
“This lab is a vital facility in the university’s efforts to create a practical hub in the heart of AUBH”, said Khaled Engineer, Founder of Go Fab 3D. “The AUBH-D lab will encourage our students and faculty to explore and nurture ideas that lead to new knowledge, products, and services.”
Ali Janahi, AUBH Director of Facilities commented, “It is through the adoption of this cross-disciplinary approach to innovation that we plan on building a larger community and connections to better serve our students. This lab will serve as a digital fabrication hub with the aim of creating a collaborative environment in design fields to serve the business and manufacturing industries in Bahrain.”
The high-tech lab will play an important role in AUBH’s objective to provide students with a well-rounded university experience that is in line with global best practices. Students will be able to work with industry leaders, build a professional network, and gain a better comprehensive overview of several projects and industries.