The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Ropar has unveiled the Dr. Ranbir Singh Tinkerers’ Lab (TL), a cutting-edge facility aimed at fostering innovation, creativity, and hands-on learning in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). The lab, established with generous funding from the Maker Bhavan Foundation (MBF) through a donation by philanthropist Dr. Ranbir Singh, will remain open 24/7, ensuring students have unrestricted access to this innovative maker space.
The Tinkerers’ Lab is not just a workspace; it is a platform for young engineers and innovators to bring their ideas to life. Equipped with state-of-the-art tools and technologies, the lab encourages students to explore, tinker, and build real-world solutions. The facility seeks to redefine STEM education by emphasizing practical, project-based learning and fostering an inventive mindset among students.
At the inauguration ceremony, Dr. Ranbir Singh, an esteemed alumnus of IIT Delhi and a prominent figure in the semiconductor industry, shared his vision:
“Investing in the future of our youth is crucial. Tinkerers’ Lab will provide students with the resources they need to turn their ideas into reality. I hope this facility ignites a spark of creativity in all who enter.”
The open-access nature of the lab allows students to experiment and innovate beyond conventional academic hours. Speaking about the initiative, Dr. Rajeev Ahuja, Director of IIT Ropar, highlighted its importance:
“At IIT Ropar, we believe in the power of hands-on learning. The Dr. Ranbir Singh Tinkerers’ Lab will serve as a catalyst for innovation and a place where students can gain practical experience that complements their academic pursuits.”
Dr. Ranbir Singh is a renowned engineer, entrepreneur, and inventor who has significantly contributed to the development of Silicon Carbide (SiC) power devices. He is the founder of GeneSiC Semiconductor Inc., a pioneer in SiC-based power technology, which merged with Navitas Semiconductor in 2022. Recognized as one of the “Forty Innovators building the foundations of the next generation electronics industry” by EE Times, Dr. Singh holds over 40 patents and has authored more than 200 research publications.
The Maker Bhavan Foundation (MBF), established in 2019, focuses on modernizing STEM education in India by promoting a culture of active learning and “making.” MBF supports institutions in building spaces like the Tinkerers’ Lab to enable students to address real-world problems through hands-on projects, fostering both technical expertise and essential soft skills for lifelong learning.
The Dr. Ranbir Singh Tinkerers’ Lab marks a milestone in IIT Ropar’s journey to empower students with the tools and opportunities needed to excel in STEM fields. With a strong emphasis on practical learning and innovation, this initiative is expected to shape the next generation of leaders and creators in technology and engineering.
