Ibadan: The Federal Polytechnic Ayede, located in Oyo State, has announced the development of a locally produced Three-Dimensional (3D) printing machine, which is set to revolutionize product packaging and enhance the commercialization of research projects. This was revealed by Oluwafemi Tijani, the Head of the Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the newly developed 3D printing machine, crafted by the institution’s Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, aims to tackle the persistent issue of inadequate packaging faced by students post-research execution. This innovation is expected to transform the appeal and marketability of student projects, enabling them to compete with imported products.
Tijani highlighted the global trend of integrating 3D printing technology into production and manufacturing processes, emphasizing its potential to streamline the creation of items, systems, and gadgets. He pointed out that various gadgets, such as phones, inverters, and battery chargers, which are often imported, could be locally produced with the aid of such technology.
In his remarks, Tijani stressed the importance of proper packaging in appreciating and commercializing student projects. He explained that the new 3D printing machine is capable of producing neat and attractive packaging, thereby serving as a motivational tool for students to create market-ready products within school laboratories.
Furthermore, the machine was developed entirely from locally sourced materials, funded by the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) Project Fabrication Grant. Tijani expressed gratitude to the institution’s Rector, Dr. Taofeek Abdul-Hameed, for his role in obtaining the grant and ensuring the project’s successful completion.
Looking ahead, Tijani is committed to training students on the production methodology of the machine, with a vision to empower them as job creators. He called on governmental support for enhanced research funding, underscoring the potential of such projects to positively impact Nigeria’s technological and economic landscape.