Arusha, Tanzania – Arusha Technical College (ATC) and the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) have jointly inaugurated a state-of-the-art 3D Design Laboratory aimed at equipping Tanzanian students with critical skills in modern engineering and innovation.
The handover ceremony, held on May 23, 2025, marked the completion of the project titled “Establishment of a 3D Design Lab and Strengthening 3D Design Capabilities for Innovative Mechanical Engineering.”
The facility was developed through a joint investment of USD 24,000 — with KOICA contributing USD 20,000 and ATC contributing USD 4,000. The lab is fully equipped with advanced computers, 3D printers, large monitors, and industry-standard software such as AutoCAD and SolidWorks, in addition to updated teaching materials and targeted training for both students and faculty.
“It is with great joy and pride that I join you today for the official handover of the 3D Design Lab here at Arusha Technical College,” said KOICA Tanzania Office Country Director Manshik Shin during his keynote remarks.
“This marks a significant step forward in our shared mission to enhance the quality of technical education in Tanzania and to empower the next generation of engineers, designers, and innovators.”
Shin emphasized the importance of technology in modern education and economic development:
“We are living in a time when technology and innovation drive nearly every aspect of life and work. In this digital era, 3D design, modeling, and printing technologies are not just tools — they are essential skills.”
He added, “This is about more than equipment, it’s about opportunity. Students in Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, and Materials Engineering will now be able to apply their knowledge in real time, gaining hands-on experience that aligns with industry needs.”
Beyond academics, Shin highlighted the lab’s broader societal impact:
“By improving practical skills in 3D design and manufacturing, we are helping young Tanzanians become more competitive in the labor market and better prepared for careers in innovation-driven industries.”
Shin also emphasized the project's alignment with the UN Sustainable Development Goals:
“This initiative strongly supports three key Sustainable Development Goals: Goal 4 – Quality Education, Goal 8 – Decent Work and Economic Growth, and Goal 10 – Reduced Inequalities, particularly by enhancing access for female students.”
He concluded by recognizing the collaborative effort behind the project:
“I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to the management of Arusha Technical College, the project team — especially our KOICA volunteer Hyungmun Lee — and everyone who contributed to the successful implementation of this project. Your efforts and collaboration are a testament to what we can achieve when we work together with a shared vision.”
In his welcoming remarks, ATC Rector Professor Musa Chacha expressed gratitude for KOICA’s support:
“We thank KOICA so much for the support they have offered not only to Arusha Technical College but to the entire country of Tanzania.
This lab will not only serve ATC students — we are opening our doors to anyone in the country who needs to upskill and enhance their understanding of modern engineering practices.”
Chacha added, “This is a shared resource that represents the spirit of cooperation and development. KOICA’s investment will go a long way in advancing technical training, research, and innovation.”
Representing the student body, Elisha B. Mwakitaja from the Department of Mechatronics and Materials Engineering (NTA Level 8) gave heartfelt remarks on behalf of his peers:
“As a student representative in the Mechanical Engineering Department, I stand before you filled with gratitude and excitement to celebrate this milestone. We express our deepest thanks to the KOICA Volunteering Program, especially the DMD volunteer, Hyungmun Lee, for his incredible skills and for transforming our college through the provision of modern teaching and learning facilities.”
Mwakitaja continued, “Your support and belief in our potential have given us smart engineering legs to be ahead of time and strong academic wings to be on top.”
He also underscored the broader vision of the new facility:
“This lab facilitates more than just a design studio. It is a beacon of academic hope, skills, and development — a state of innovation and a testament to what ATC and KOICA’s friendship can achieve. This lab will be our classroom, our workshop, and our launchpad. It will empower us to tackle real-world challenges, from designing sustainable technologies to advancing materials science and manufacturing.”
He concluded with a message of partnership and ambition:
“While we celebrate this incredible achievement, we also look to the future with hope and ambition for continued support. The ongoing partnership can help us expand programs, train our students, and undertake groundbreaking research in science and engineering. Thank you for your time, and God bless ATC and KOICA.”
The event was attended by senior officials, faculty members, students, and partners, all of whom expressed enthusiasm about the potential of the 3D Design Lab to reshape the future of technical education in Tanzania.
The facility is expected to benefit over 430 students, including a growing number of female learners, and position ATC as a national hub for design innovation and practical engineering education.
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