Kashitu Secondary School - Light under the shade

Project idea

The Kashitu School in Zambia draws its inspiration from the tree — a timeless symbol of growth, knowledge, and connection. This project reflects the hopes and dreams of the local community through a design that respects their culture while embracing sustainability and purpose. Following Zambian tradition, the school is made up of separate buildings, each with its own role, all brought together under layered roofs. These roofs not only protect from the harsh sun but also include openings that allow natural airflow, creating a comfortable and energy-efficient space that fits perfectly with the local climate.

The layered roofs and buildings echo the way a tree grows — symbolizing how students build knowledge step by step. The design connects spaces like branches, encouraging collaboration, interaction, and a strong sense of community. At the same time, the school blends naturally into the surrounding landscape, creating a place that feels part of its environment.

By honoring local ways and using available resources wisely, the project aims to create a learning environment that helps students grow, celebrates their cultural identity, and inspires generations to come.

Project description

The Kashitu School brings together culture, climate-smart design, and the needs of education to create a welcoming and sustainable space for learning. The layout reflects Zambian traditions by having separate but connected buildings, encouraging students and teachers to work together while staying rooted in their community and nature.

A standout feature is the roof, designed as a thermal prism. It absorbs heat from the sun, and as warm air rises, it escapes through special ICEB claustra panels made by arranging the perforated blocks on their side. This sets up a natural airflow that pulls fresh, cool air inside, keeping the classrooms comfortable without the need for fans or air conditioning.

The walls also play a role in comfort: embossed ICEB blocks create shaded areas that reduce direct sunlight and help keep indoor temperatures down. This not only makes the building more energy-efficient but also provides a calm and pleasant atmosphere for learning.

With a focus on locally sourced materials and respecting the environment, the project lowers its impact on nature while supporting the community’s economy and traditions.

Technical information

This project embraces local resources and sustainability from the ground up. The roofs and walls are built using Interlocking Compressed Earth Blocks (ICEB), made from local soil. This means less environmental impact and a structure that fits naturally with its surroundings.

The ICEB blocks provide strength but also have embossed patterns that shade the walls and keep things cooler inside. The blocks are cleverly used in different ways — laid on their side to form ventilated claustra panels that help air flow naturally through the buildings. This is part of the passive cooling strategy that keeps the school comfortable without relying on electricity.

In addition to the ICEB blocks, affordable and locally available corrugated galvanized sheets are used for parts of the roofing. These sheets add durability and protect the school from weather while keeping costs low.

By combining local building traditions and materials with smart design ideas, the Kashitu School supports the local economy, preserves cultural identity, and sets a sustainable example for future projects.

Documentation

Show PDF 1