The 3D Discovery Experience

• April 9, 2026
• Andrew

The Malta Digital Innovation Authority (MDIA), in collaboration with Ing. David Sciberras, Founder of Invent 3D Ltd, recently organised a series of educational visits that brought the world of 3D printing to life for young learners. Over the course of the initiative, four Government primary schools and four Church primary schools had the opportunity to step inside Mr Sciberras’ state of the art 3D factory and experience innovation in action.

Introducing Students to the World of 3D Printing

3D printing also known as additive manufacturing, is a technology that creates three dimensional objects by building them layer by layer from digital designs. It is widely used in industries such as engineering, medicine, architecture, product design, and even fashion. For students, it offers a powerful way to understand how ideas move from imagination to physical reality.

At Invent 3D, students were immersed in this process from the moment they arrived. They were first introduced to a variety of products manufactured through 3D printing, ranging from simple prototypes to complex functional components. This hands on exposure helped them appreciate the versatility and real world applications of the technology.

A Guided Journey Through Design and Manufacturing

Together with the Invent 3D team, students explored the materials, machines, and methods that make 3D printing possible. They learned about:
• Different types of 3D printers used in industry
• Materials such as PLA, ABS, and resin
• Design principles that influence how objects are printed
• The step by step workflow from digital model to finished product
The highlight for many students was the chance to set up their own 3D prints, giving them a sense of ownership and achievement as they watched their creations begin to take shape.

A Memorable and Inspiring Experience

The visits were met with great enthusiasm, with students expressing curiosity, excitement, and a strong desire to learn more about digital manufacturing. The feedback received reflects the impact of this initiative. One participating school shared the following message:

“Our students have really enjoyed their visit and it was a truly learning experience. They had the opportunity to view the whole printing process and were given a token too.”

Such comments highlight the value of exposing young learners to emerging technologies and giving them opportunities to explore future oriented skills in authentic environments.

Shaping Tomorrow’s Innovators

Through this initiative, MDIA and Invent 3D have provided students with more than just a factory tour, they have offered a glimpse into the future of design, engineering, and creativity. Experiences like these help nurture curiosity, strengthen digital literacy, and inspire the next generation of innovators who will shape Malta’s technological landscape.