Around-the-clock Student-Led Engineering Workshop Opens at Ahmedabad University, Complete with Advanced Equipment
At Ahmedabad University's School of Engineering and Applied Science, the Tinkerers Lab offers a unique opportunity for students to delve into hands-on engineering and prototyping. This cutting-edge maker space provides round-the-clock access to industrial-grade equipment, fostering an environment for making, building, and prototyping working solutions for academic projects, entrepreneurial ventures, and national competitions.
The Tinkerers Lab is equipped with advanced prototyping tools such as 3D printers, laser cutters, electronics workstations, machine tools, hand tools, and precision measurement instruments. This setup enables students to engage in practical, real-world engineering applications, building working prototypes for their academic pursuits, competitions, and startups.
Beyond prototyping, the Tinkerers Lab supports interdisciplinary experiential learning through activities like LEAP boot camps, build-a-thons, and ongoing mentoring programs. These initiatives focus on real-world engineering applications, providing students with a comprehensive learning experience.
For students with innovative ideas ready to commercialize, the Tinkerers Lab offers a direct pathway to VentureStudio, Ahmedabad University's incubation hub. This connection facilitates the creation of startups and encourages entrepreneurial spirit among students.
The Tinkerers Lab is a student-managed space, promoting a culture of experimentation, iterative learning through trying and failing, and creative problem-solving. This environment nurtures a mindset that is essential for success in today's dynamic world.
Ahmedabad University, the home of the Tinkerers Lab, is a leading private, non-profit research university, recognised by the Government of Gujarat as a Centre of Excellence. The university has received numerous accolades, including the Leadership and Management Team of the Year at the Times Higher Education Awards Asia 2025, a 5-star rating in the Gujarat State Institutional Rating Framework (GSIRF) for 2021-22 and 2023-24, and the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) International Award for Excellence 2024 for its University Centre.
The Tinkerers Lab has also benefited from collaborations with organisations like the Maker Bhavan Foundation, AIA Engineering Ltd., and Arvind Composites. Notably, Arvind Composites fabricated a mezzanine floor at the Tinkerers Lab using advanced composite materials, reducing structural weight by nearly one-third compared to conventional construction.
Ahmedabad University offers a wide range of programmes from bachelors to doctoral levels in humanities and social sciences, natural sciences, engineering, and management through its 13 Schools and Centres. The university is committed to sustainability, having received a Platinum Rating by the Indian Green Building Council for its green practices.
Starting this semester, the Tinkerers Lab will be open to all engineering students at Ahmedabad University, integrating with LEAP (Learning Engineering by Activity through Projects), a programme developed by the IIT Madras Incubation Cell. This expansion will undoubtedly foster a new generation of engineers who solve real-world challenges with practical skills and entrepreneurial capabilities.
- The Tinkerers Lab at Ahmedabad University's School of Engineering and Applied Science, renowned for its education and self-development opportunities, equips students with advanced technology for prototyping projects, events, and entrepreneurial awards.
- The lab supports students through activities like build-a-thons and mentoring programs, providing a platform for real-world engineering innovation that harmonizes with the university's commitment to sustainability.
- Graduating students can leverage the Tinkerers Lab's connection to VentureStudio for transitioning innovative ideas into successful startups within the economy.
- Collaborations with organizations such as the Maker Bhavan Foundation and Arvind Composites enrich the technology landscape of the lab, fostering scientific advancements that contribute to the university's reputation.
- As Ahmedabad University broadens the Tinkerers Lab's reach to include all engineering students, programs like LEAP will encourage a new generation of engineers who harness technology for solving real-world challenges and promoting sustainable development.
