Rwanda is set to export Information, Communication and Technology (ICT) programmes to manufacturing companies in the United States, Dr Raphael Mmasi, the Director of National Computing Centre (NCC) of Rwanda Information and Technology Authority (RITA) unveiled to The New Times. Rwanda is set to export Information, Communication and Technology (ICT) programmes to manufacturing companies in the United States.Dr Raphael Mmasi, the Director of National Computing Centre (NCC) of Rwanda Information and Technology Authority (RITA) unveiled to The New Times, the Computer Aid Design (CAD) of three dimensions (3D) as anticipated ICT package for export. "The 3D graphic drawing computer system will help manufacturing companies in US and around the world streamline product development, cut costs and re-use design data," said Mmasi.

Only the two dimension (2D) computer design system has been available for use in graphic drawings by the manufacturing companies in the US. Capitalising on the growing pool of skilled engineers, the government, with help from SolidWorks Corporation, a US firm is to start an ICT project called Gasabo 3D Design that will convert two dimension (2D) data into 3D models required by US manufacturing firms that use computer graphics. He said the Gasabo 3D Design project is a joint initiative of the Rwanda Information Technology Authority (RITA) on behalf of the government, the Kigali Institute of Science and Technology (KIST) and the �cole Technique Officielle (ETO) Gitarama high school helped to train required manpower to spearhead the project. "To access the Rwanda provided 3D CAD service, the US firms will have to pay, creating an ICT business venture between the two countries," he said.

Mmasi said the CAD dimension system is the new ICT programme to be developed in the country, expected also to benefit home industries engaged into manufacturing processes that use graphic drawings. "ICT is not all about computers, but efficient production from their use" he said, observing that Gasabo 3D Design project will provide fast, accurate file conversion as a service, enabling worldwide SolidWorks customers to leverage their existing 2D design data without having to do it in-house. The commitment by SolidWorks Corporation to provide software and business expertise to launch and grow 3D Design project, has prompted its CEO John McEleney to visit the country to observe preparations for project implementation.

Gasabo 3D Design project is expected to provide large manufacturers a cost-effective and fast way to convert vital 2D files into accurate 3D models, which manufacturers will be able to modify and build upon to meet customer needs. This efficiency will help both international and national companies stay alert, so they can design better products and excel in a global economy. More importantly, the project is expected to provide the hands-on 3D CAD software training to teach Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) principles and enhance engineering enthusiasm in the country