More than 100 students and customers were recently introduced to the concept of 3D-printed homes during an engagement session hosted by STARR Computer Inc. at its Georgetown Innovation Centre, where the company said the technology could help address Guyana’s growing demand for affordable housing.
According to a statement from the company, the event formed part of its monthly educational field trips and focused on emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, automation and industrial-scale 3D printing.
The session featured a presentation by STARR Computer President Mike Mohan, who outlined a proposal titled “3D Printing of Homes in Guyana 2026–2028.” Mohan said that large-scale robotic construction could help meet the country’s housing needs while positioning Guyana as a regional leader in housing innovation.
He said Guyana currently faces a demand for more than 40,000 affordable homes and noted that labour shortages have contributed to lengthy construction periods, with conventionally built houses often taking up to a year to complete.
Mohan posited that industrial 3D-printing technology could significantly shorten construction times, explaining that large-scale printers are capable of producing the structural shell of a house within 24 to 72 hours. Once utilities and finishing work are completed, he said, homes could be ready for occupancy within two to four weeks.
He also cited projections suggesting that the technology could reduce construction costs by as much as 60 per cent while decreasing material waste and lowering labour requirements.
The proposal outlined a phased implementation plan beginning with a pilot programme in 2026 involving the importation of two industrial 3D construction printers and the construction of 50 homes in communities such as Sophia and Eccles.
Under the proposal, the initiative would be expanded in 2027 before reaching full-scale implementation in 2028, when a fleet of 20 construction printers could produce more than 2,000 homes annually.
According to Mohan, the construction process would involve five stages, beginning with digital architectural design, followed by site preparation, the use of specially mixed fast-drying concrete, robotic wall printing and conventional finishing work before occupancy.
He said Guyana’s expanding economy and increased access to financing through both public and private sector initiatives have created conditions that could support the adoption of new construction technologies.
Mohan suggested that building contractors begin exploring 3D-printing as a complementary construction method while maintaining traditional building practices. He also called for the government to seek international guidance in establishing regulatory standards and training programmes to prepare engineers and other construction professionals for the technology.
During his presentation, according to the statement, Mohan made reference to housing projects in the United States, the Netherlands, El Salvador and the United Arab Emirates, where 3D-printing technology has already been used in residential construction. He suggested that similar approaches could be adapted to Guyana’s circumstances.
Beyond housing, Mohan urged participants to embrace artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies, stating that they would play an increasingly important role in addressing challenges such as food security, healthcare, energy, cybersecurity and population growth.
He said technological innovation would be essential as Guyana continues its economic transformation and encouraged greater investment in technology across sectors including housing, education, manufacturing and services.
The event also highlighted several customer initiatives being undertaken by STARR Computer, including its free business card programme, self-checkout system, Tuesday discounts for senior citizens and Thursday discounts for educators.
STARR Computer said the engagement formed part of its ongoing efforts to promote digital literacy and encourage the adoption of emerging technologies as tools for national development.
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