Oluchi Chibuzor
As part of efforts to digitize education and improve learning experiences, Generative CAD Services Limited, a product development and engineering consultancy, has collaborated with Flashforge to deliver the Flashforge Adventurer 5M Pro and Flashforge Adventurer 5M 3D printers to the African Church Primary School and to donate to the First African Church Mission Primary School in Ifako-Ijaye, Lagos.
The company's initiative highlights the transformative potential of technology in education and paves the way for a future where Nigerian students can compete globally in innovation and creativity.
Chukwubuikem Amaefule, CEO of Generative CAD Services, explained that the initiative is part of a broader partnership with international original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), including Flashforge, a renowned 3D printing machine manufacturer. He said this “Light of Africa Dream” project aims to revolutionize education in African schools.
“One of our goals is to improve the learning experience and help teachers make an impactful difference. Traditional methods like drawing boards and paper can be challenging, but 3D printing brings the transformative power of creativity, creation and innovation into classrooms. It makes learning more interactive and helps students visualize and create in three dimensions, which is crucial in our 3D world,” said Amaefule.
He explained the versatility of 3D printing and highlighted its applications in various fields, including education, healthcare, automotive, prototyping, manufacturing and construction.
Reflecting on his own experiences, Amaefule emphasized the importance of early adoption of advanced technologies such as 3D printing.
“I only came into contact with a 3D printer after I graduated from university. Imagine the doors it could have opened if I had had access to it in secondary school. Our goal is to catch them young as curiosity and creativity peak in childhood. This exposure can stimulate innovation from primary school to university,” he explained.
The donated 3D printers are intended to provide hands-on learning opportunities and allow students to design and create tangible models of objects including human anatomy, automotive parts and architectural models.
“Teachers will also be trained to ensure effective use of machines in classrooms,” he said.
Amaefule also highlighted the importance of sustainability and partnerships in the initiative, saying: “We don’t just donate machines; We ensure they are used effectively by training teachers and maintaining regular contact with schools. This ensures a long-term impact, even as students come and go.”
He also called for collaboration among individuals, alumni associations and government agencies to spread 3D printing to more schools.
He noted that immediate training for teachers will take place following the donation, with a more intensive training program planned for the long-term holidays in June or July. According to him, this training will focus on giving teachers the ability to design and create 3D models independently.
Amaefule expressed optimism about the expansion of the initiative. “This is just the beginning. With more sponsors and partners, we can scale this project to benefit thousands of students across the region and beyond.”