The Technical Center for Textiles Inaugurates OpenLab Tunis and Chemistry Laboratory
Yesterday, the Technical Center for Textiles (Cettex) inaugurated its OpenLab Tunis and chemistry laboratory at its headquarters. These two laboratories aim to improve the services offered and support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in their compliance with national and international standards, while proposing innovative solutions with high added value.
Supporting the National Initiative for Industrial Transition
The Minister of Industry, Mines, and Energy, Fatma Chiboub, highlighted the importance of this laboratory in the context of the national initiative for industrial transition to "Industry 4.0". This initiative aims to modernize the Tunisian industrial sector by adopting cutting-edge technologies.
OpenLab: A Multidisciplinary Coworking Space
OpenLab, supported by the German Corporation for International Cooperation (GIZ), is a multidisciplinary coworking space that welcomes startups, SMEs, project holders, and entrepreneurs. It offers the advantage of reducing operating costs while fostering business development. By providing a range of new services and support, OpenLab helps Tunisian companies succeed in the digital era, as emphasized by Cettex's General Director, Mohsen Missaoui.
Innovative Technologies for Competitiveness
New technologies such as the Internet of Things, robotics, and artificial intelligence offer significant potential for innovation, productivity, and competitiveness. The Director General also mentioned that the Center's mission is to conduct material audits and assist companies in acquiring state-of-the-art machines, enabling them to remain competitive in the market.
State-of-the-Art Tools and Services
OpenLab provides companies with a range of cutting-edge technological tools, including 3D printers, computer-aided manufacturing machines (CNC), and more.
A Springboard for SME Success
OpenLab aims to be a springboard for SME success, offering a collaborative work environment, tailored services, and personalized support.
Fostering Entrepreneurial and Digital Skills
The Center also targets students, including those in their final year projects (PFE), to reinforce entrepreneurial and digital skills. Rather than limiting themselves to theory, students are encouraged to conduct new experiments, develop innovative solutions, and create prototypes, preparing them for the challenges of the professional world.
Capacity Building and Collaboration
According to Nabila Ben Romdhane, responsible for studies and cooperation at Cettex, training sessions have been organized for the Center's staff on the use of new technological tools. The ministry indicates that this initiative also aims to establish a link between the scientific research domain (universities and research institutes), technology providers, and SMEs.