Global challenges such as climate change, population growth, food security challenges, pollution, environmental challenges and Covid-19 have highlighted the importance and value of an educated and prepared STEM workforce for solving future problems. Making STEM – Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics – exciting and engaging for all learners remains challenging. However, technological advancement is one way to prepare the next generation for the problems they will face. It is essential to arm students with the tools necessary to effect change.
In Qatar, the Qatar National Vision 2030 (QNV) outlays the country’s ambition to have a knowledge-based economy and to run a sustainable economic model. To get the kids interested in STEM at a young age, the Qatar Scientific Club will establish eight digital fabrication laboratories in several public schools with the support of the Ministry of Sports and Youth and in cooperation with the Ministry of Education and Higher Education (MoEHE). Digital fabrication is just one more mechanism that can facilitate STEM promotion.
Known as “fab labs” for short, these facilities—are outfitted with equipment such as high-tech 3D printers, laser cutters, mechanical gear, vinyl cutters and computer-aided design software. The phenomenon started at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)’s Center for Bits and Atoms.According to the Qatar Scientific Club, the laboratories aim to increase the number of innovators and attract the scientific talents willing to opt for scientific disciplines in universities, in addition to supplying the needs of the labour market from the required and qualified Qatari innovative young cadres.
Administrative and Financial Director of the Qatar Scientific Club, Fatima Al Mohannadi, said the club prioritised the establishment of the scientific laboratories to be further equipped with high-performance technologies, such as digital fabrication lab, robotic fabrication lab, artificial intelligence (AI), innovative business incubators, engineering design corner, electronics and communications lab, implementation and assembly of projects, and a library of materials to achieve progress in the fields of research, sciences and innovation in Qatar in collaboration with the relevant enterprises.
Fabrication laboratories provide a platform for young people to find solutions to problems and establish strategies for social development using technology. Hence, FabLabs promote generating opportunities for creativity by implementing numerous functions in a one-stop setting, like a space to do, a space for deep work, and a space for collaboration. Qatar Scientific Club encourages innovative thinking and achieving a sustainable future for creative youth, as well as increasing awareness of the role of research and innovation in exploring solutions for the challenges facing individuals and institutions.
