Kinshasa, June 24, 2024 – Under the spotlight of the global architectural scene, a major event is taking place: the seminar on research in architecture and urban planning in sub-Saharan Africa. This exchange of experiences, bringing together architects from various geographical backgrounds, explores major issues and innovative themes, with the aim of strengthening the training capacities of professionals in the sector.
Organized in Kinshasa, this seminar-workshop constitutes a crucial moment of sharing and learning between schools of architecture in sub-Saharan Africa, Belgium, France and the various provinces of the Democratic Republic of Congo. The meeting, supported by the Research/Africa-Training Program, aims to provide higher education institutions with the tools necessary to train competent architects who are rooted in their local reality.
At the heart of the debates, 24 strategic themes are addressed, divided into four major axes. The discussions focus on research issues in architecture, the adaptation of urban projects to the specificities of Congolese cities, the digital transition for optimal online research, as well as women’s access to the profession of architecture. These key topics highlight the importance of rethinking practices and teaching to respond to developments in the sector.
The intervention of Prof. Yves Robert of the Université libre de Bruxelles, at the end of this seminar, highlights the quality of the exchanges and shared reflections. The expertise of the speakers, from universities in the North and the South, enriches the debates and opens new perspectives for the future of architecture and urban planning in sub-Saharan Africa.
Through this founding event, the Higher Institute of Architecture and Urban Planning (ISAU) in Kinshasa positions itself as a key player in the training of future architects and urban planners on the continent. Bridging local and international knowledge, this initiative strengthens the links between the different actors in the field, fostering fruitful dialogue and enriching collaboration.
In conclusion, this seminar on research in architecture and urban planning in sub-Saharan Africa marks an important step in the professionalization and evolution of the sector. By focusing on innovation, training and diversity of approaches, it contributes to shaping a promising future for architecture in Africa and beyond.