Sustainable Construction in Developing Countries

The aim of the project “Sustainable Construction in Developing Countries“ was the concept development and construction of a multipurpose space for the Rwandan practice partner Centre de Jeunes de Gatenga, as well as the best practice exchange on sustainable construction methods in developing countries. Trier University of Applied Sciences students worked with students of the partner university in Rwanda and the practice partner Handwerk HILFT trainees.

The project was divided into three phases: 1) International lecture series on building aspects of sustainability and development aid focusing on studies on the shade roof. Students in international teams develop initial designs that take into account the available local resources as well as climate-relevant aspects. 2) Project week at Trier University of Applied Sciences, during which the semi-finished products were manufactured with the help of young craftsmen and carpenters from the practical partner Handwerk HILFT. 3) Shipping of the semi-finished products from project week to Rwanda: With materials and tools available in Rwanda, the students builded the meeting place together from the semi-finished products based on their designs.

In addition, topics of social interaction, health and well-being, gender equality, and inclusion were addressed in workshops.