Phase 1: Renovation of existing structures
The Akilah Institute will be housed in beautiful facilities in Bugesera district. The design for phase 1 includes housing for students, teachers, and supporting staff; 6 classrooms; library and computer lab; student center, and dining room and kitchen.
Architecture for Humanity is providing probono design services. Read more about Akilah’s partnership with AfH.
History of the Site
The site was first constructed by an Italian organization in the 1970s and most recently used as a Centre de Formacion des Jeunes (CFJ) , or government vocational training center. Due to a lack of funding and resources, operations at the school ceased and many of the buildings were left unattended. When the Akilah team approached the District of Bugesera leadership, the Mayor proposed the idea of donating the CFJ for the Akilah Institute.
Master Plan
Master Plan for the Akilah Institute
The buildings need to be renovated before they are habitable, and key infrastructure, such as running water, power, and a waste management system, is needed. In 2010, the existing structures will be renovated, and then additional buildings will be constructed as the Institute’s size and scope grow.
New construction plans include a student center, lecture hall, additional classrooms, and more dormitory space to accommodate a growing student population.
AfH Trip to Rwanda
Four architects from AfH came to Rwanda in November 2008 to study the existing facilities. See pictures from their trip on the Akilah blog.
Upon returning to the US, the research continued as the team studied sustainable systems that will both help preserve the surrounding ecological system, and allow the Institute to thrive.
Concepts such as sustainability, community planning, innovative building techniques, and intelligent approaches to vocational training have been identified early in the project, and will develop strongly throughout the design process.
The Living and Learning Environment
To promote a sustainable way of living at the Akilah Institute, students will grow much of their own food on campus, rely on alternative methods of energy such as solar power, and utilize the benefits of composting toilets, rainwater harvesting, and grey water re-use.
AfH design sketches