The Stellenbosch University (SU) Library recently opened a new collaborative workspace that includes a Clevertouch interactive touchscreen and 3D printing services.
The Makerspace, which opened on 1 April, has 3D scanning services, design and construction workstations and Computer-Aided Design (CAD) facilities available to students, researchers and staff, according to Norman Hebler, the head of Makerspace.
“The library is a space where academic projects intersect,” said Jeremiah Pietersen, manager of learning and training at SU Library. “Because Makerspace is in the library, it opens up the possibility for students from all disciplines, not necessarily only practical faculties like engineering, to make use of the tools.”
Makerspace is an innovative space that is open to students, researchers and staff from all faculties of Stellenbosch University. PHOTO: Kirsty Bucholz
Makerspace is open from 08:30 to 16:30 on weekdays, and can accommodate 23 people at a time, according to Hebler. It was constructed with the aim of enabling students to create and adapt new digital materials and tools, he said.
“It is a space for innovation and reason. We want Makerspace to add value to the university’s curriculum and learning,” said Pietersen.
The facility has four design workstations for 3D modelling and circuit design, as well as four construction workstations for soldering, circuit inspection and working with oscilloscopes, according to the SU Library’s website.
Makerspace is equipped with 3D printing and scanning facilities that enable students to design and create new digital objects. PHOTO: Kirsty Bucholz
“The equipment is expensive and a lot of students can’t afford it, so that’s why we have it. We are trying to provide the components without it costing anything,” explained Hebler. Due to the specialised nature of the equipment, Makerspace staff members need to be on duty to ensure adherence to safety procedures, as well as provide training and supervision, said Hebler.
The plans to construct the facility have been in the works since 2016, but were put on hold last year due to Covid-19, according to Pietersen and Hebler.
Makerspace has a state-of-the-art Clevertouch interactive touchscreen, as demonstrated by Norman Hebler, head of Makerspace, and Jeremiah Pietersen, manager of learning and training at SU Library. PHOTO: Kirsty Bucholz
“I think it’s a great initiative and way for the university to get to the forefront of this type of development. I’m excited to come and use the space, even as an accounting student,” said Philip Visage, member of the SU Student Representative Council (SRC).
Makerspace is located on the first floor of the Stellenbosch University Library. Those who wish to use the space must book in advance. PHOTO: Kirsty Bucholz