Currently only 13% of girls in Africa are able to go onto secondary education. The Gashora Girls Academy is a secondary boarding school located in Gashora, Rwanda. The school provides a place for growth and education for 270 girls, age 15-18, who will go on to become strong members of the community and beyond.

The design team’s objective is to create a holistic design that is self-sustaining, both economically and environmentally, and can be used as an educational model, setting the precedence for future projects.

Design Intent: There are four major structural components: the community center, academic buildings, dormitory facilities, and dining hall. The community center positioned along the road acts as a gateway, inviting the public to share the space for community activities. The academy is also sited on the path to the villager’s main water source. The project incorporates a well at the community center, further encouraging the community to play an active role in the development of the girls. The design provides a safe and secure environment that supports education and encourages community interaction.

Sustainable Initiatives: The project incorporates sustainable building practices using local materials and systems including natural ventilation, water reclamation, onsite waste management, and power generation. In addition to design and construction, agricultural components allow the school to grown their own food, teach efficient farming practices, and serve as a revenue source, which will help provide economic sustainability.

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