Case Studies: Addressing Local Needs and Aspirations Through Community Development and Infrastructure Building Projects

This set of case studies is part of a series of case studies that draw on an archive developed through the work of the Aga Khan Trust for Culture (AKTC). The projects in Bangladesh, Burkina Faso, China, Egypt, Ethiopia, India, Indonesia, Iran, Kosovo, Lebanon, Morocco, Oman, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, South Africa, United Arab Emirates, Republic of Tatarstan and Tunisia and some that have been applied in multiple contexts, have either been recipients of or shortlisted for the Aga Khan Award for Architecture. In addition to providing insight into selected contexts, issues, community partners, processes and impacts, the case studies also encourage students to reflect on the invisible capacity of built and natural environments to unite people by enhancing the psychological and social health of communities. They also recognise the role played by architects, in collaboration with users, to create pluralistic, inclusive natural and built environments.

This series of case studies, categorised as – education (series 1 and 2); community development and infrastructure projects; housing; public urban spaces/environments; museums and cultural centres; sustainable tourism and social recreation facilities, public buildings and natural and built environments – may be used as part of wider studies of human life, behaviour and actions, and their impacts, across time, place and space. They may also be used to reflect on ways in which the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development may be realised.

Students are encouraged to connect theoretical learning to the real world and form a deep understanding of their own context and its interconnectedness with the rest of the world. Students may be inspired and empowered, as they engage with real-world projects, to become ethical leaders who achieve positive and sustainable change that will transform our world for the better.

Nichols, Rebecca, (ed). Case Studies: Addressing Local Needs and Aspirations Through Community Development and Infrastructure Building Projects. Aga Khan Trust for Culture Education Programme, 2023.

Aga Khan Trust for Culture