Kathmandu, July 28

The US Embassy today opened a new Makerspace at the Embassy-supported Innovation Hub in Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI) secretariat.

A ‘Makerspace’ is a place that supports hands-on learning in an informal, creativity-focused environment, where people gather to share resources and knowledge.

“Makerspaces are dynamic additions to our American Spaces worldwide. This space will give Nepali students, entrepreneurs, and citizens access to modern tools to design, build and manufacture just about anything,” a press statement has quoted Macon Phillips, coordinator for the Bureau of International Information Programmes (IIP) at the Department of State, as saying during the launch ceremony.

The US Embassy has opened the Makerspace to encourage entrepreneurship by providing a technology-centred space where young Nepali innovators and entrepreneurs can explore and develop a culture of creating and nurture peer-to-peer learning in an informal setting.

This space includes new technology, including 3D printers and laser cutters that will allow entrepreneurs to design and create new products, according to the statement.

The Innovation Hub American Space in Teku provides Nepalis free access to objective information, and is also a place for entrepreneurs to meet and work on their new business ideas. Six of the eight American Spaces in Nepal are located outside the Capital and serve as venues where local residents can be exposed to American culture and ideals.

The US Embassy is partnering with Karkhana, an education company with a unique approach to learning to run the Makerspace.