Panjab University to establish pre-incubation Fab Lab
The Fab Lab will focus on skill development, employability, and entrepreneurship
3 min read
With an investment of about Rs 1.6 crore, the proposed facility will offer hands-on access to cutting-edge tools (Archive)The Panjab University (PU) is all set to provide its students with a powerful new platform for innovation through the launch of a Pre-Incubation Fab Lab under RUSA 2.0. With an investment of about Rs 1.6 crore, the proposed facility will offer hands-on access to cutting-edge tools, enabling students to turn ideas into working prototypes, industry-ready projects, and even startups.
The Fab Lab will focus on skill development, employability, and entrepreneurship. Students from diverse disciplines will be able to design and fabricate their own Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs), integrate hardware and software systems, and work with advanced technologies like IoT, robotics, AI, and embedded systems. By reducing dependence on external vendors, the facility will save time and cost while giving students practical exposure to real-world processes.
The lab will feature a PCB design and fabrication unit capable of producing single, double, and multilayer boards, supported by advanced machinery such as automated soldering stations, UV exposure units, reflow ovens, and a complete assembly and testing setup. A dedicated Cyber-Physical Systems (CPS) lab will offer IoT gateways, robotics kits, embedded platforms like Arduino and Raspberry Pi, GPUs for AI applications, and testing equipment. Licensed PCB design software and high-performance workstations will be available for students to design, simulate, and execute projects.
For students, the benefits include faster turnaround for academic projects, hands-on training in modern prototyping tools, improved placement opportunities through demonstrable skills, and pathways into entrepreneurship. Research scholars will be able to quickly test prototypes, while undergraduate students can gain valuable project experience. The facility will also support student competitions, workshops, and certifications, enhancing both learning outcomes and career readiness.
Beyond academics, the lab will strengthen collaboration with startups and industries in the Tricity region, giving students opportunities for internships, live projects, and mentorship. By combining education, research, and industry services, the university aims to create a sustainable ecosystem where students can learn, innovate, and launch ventures directly from campus.
PU Vice-Chancellor Prof Renu Vig said, “The Pre-Incubation Fab Lab is not just an infrastructure project but a launchpad for our students’ ideas, research, and entrepreneurial journeys. By providing hands-on access to world-class tools and mentorship, we aim to nurture job creators, innovators, and leaders who will shape tomorrow’s industries.” She added that the lab will be operational this semester, with structured training sessions, project support, and pre-incubation opportunities open to all interested students.
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