In Rwamishiba, Rwanda, architectural firm Eda-Au is working with local craftsmen to build a centre dedicated to education. In doing so, it is realising an educational project in the broadest possible sense. In this country, too, concrete is difficult to dethrone as an icon of modernity. Yet for the architects, the use of brick was the obvious choice.

It all started with the desire of a Rwandan living in Belgium to help his native village. He sought the resources and an architect to build a place where the younger generations could further their education and stimulate their critical thinking. Arnd Amand, founder of Eda-Au, wanted to help on a voluntary basis. Together, they toured the country, visiting state schools, factories and brickworks. In the schools, they always came to the same conclusion: it was impossible to hold the children’s attention when it was too hot or noisy. As far as transport was concerned, there was neither a river nor a railway. After their return, they therefore decided to use a local resource, namely earth, and to avoid all outdated technologies in order to construct an autonomous building.