Diebedo Francis Kere and the Ecole Project

Diebedo Francis Kere and the Ecole Project

Who is Diebedo Francis Kere?

Diebedo Francis Kere is a renowned architect and academic from Burkina Faso. His work is known for its innovation, sustainability, and commitment to social justice.

The Ecole Project

One of Kere’s most significant undertakings is the Gando Primary School, also known as the Ecole project. This project aimed to provide a cost-effective and sustainable educational facility for the children of Gando, Burkina Faso.

  • The Ecole project was completed in 2001.
  • Since its completion, it has received numerous awards, including the Aga Khan Award for Architecture in 2004.
  • The school is entirely self-sufficient, with solar panels providing energy and a natural ventilation system regulating temperature.
  • Kere used local materials such as clay, stones, and wood to construct the building. He also employed local labor, providing employment for the community.

The Impact of Kere’s Work

Kere’s work has had a significant impact on communities in Burkina Faso and beyond. His commitment to sustainability and social justice has inspired architects and designers to prioritize these values in their own work.

The success of the Ecole project has also led to similar initiatives in other communities. In 2014, Kere designed the Oued Eddahab School in Morocco, which uses similar sustainable design principles as the Ecole project.

Conclusion

Diebedo Francis Kere’s work is a testament to the power of design and architecture to create meaningful change in the world. The Ecole project and other initiatives like it demonstrate the importance of sustainable design and the benefits it can bring to communities.

References:


  • The Architectural Review: Pritzker Prize Profile – Diébédo Francis Kéré
  • Dezeen: Inside Francis Kéré’s Lycée Schorge Secondary School in Burkina Faso
  • Wallpaper: Diébédo Francis Kéré designs an eco-friendly school in Burkina Faso
  • BBC News: Why I built a school for 300 children in Burkina Faso
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