Diébédo Francis Kéré: How to build with clay ... and community

The speaker, a native of Burkina Faso, shares his journey from a small village to becoming an architect in Germany. Despite challenges like poverty and lack of resources, he used his skills to build a school in his village using innovative techniques with local materials. His projects have empowered the community, providing education and economic opportunities. The speaker emphasizes the power of community and architecture in shaping futures.

What were some of the challenges faced by the speaker's village, Gando?

• Lack of internet access

• Overpopulation

• No electricity and clean water

• High crime rates

What opportunity did the speaker receive that changed his life?

• A job in Europe

• A scholarship to study in Germany

• A business grant

• A government position

How did the speaker initially raise funds for the school project?

• Through a government grant

• By organizing a charity event

• By asking classmates to save on coffee and cigarettes

• By selling personal belongings

What material did the speaker use to build the school that surprised the community?

• Wood

• Concrete

• Clay

• Metal

What was a key feature of the school design to ensure comfort in high temperatures?

• Solar panels

• Simple ventilation

• Thick walls

• Air conditioning

What innovative technique was used in the school extension project?

• Installing solar panels

• Using recycled materials

• Building with bamboo

• Creating a clay vault

How did the library project in Gando utilize clay pots?

• As decorative elements

• To create openings for ventilation

• As storage containers

• To support the roof

What was the innovation in the high school project?

• Building underground classrooms

• Using solar energy

• Casting mud like concrete

• Using bamboo for construction

What impact did the speaker's projects have on the local community?

• Increased migration to cities

• Improved local employment opportunities

• Decreased school attendance

• Higher crime rates

What cultural practice did the women of Gando perform to support the speaker's education?

• Organizing community events

• Teaching him traditional crafts

• Offering him food

• Giving him their last penny