Architecture for SDG 4) Quality Education

Can Architects support Gender Equality and reduce inequalities? Following the previous article,

Our Rules: Dr. Ahmed Abouaiana

SDG4: Quality Education Education is a pillar of well-being, while quality means high standards. So, if your architectural design helps the user learn and educate themselves about something new, you achieve Quality Education. Let's think about the access to education`

Architeture for SDG4 Quality Education (Pillars and some keywords) (Image credit and sources: Ahmed Abouaiana)

Providing education and role models empowers users to initiate positive community change. Creating spaces within buildings fosters local community interaction to enhance social life. In this context, you supported educational quality.

You may need to implement nature-inspired design solutions in buildings (such as schools, universities, or residential complexes) to invite students to learn how to preserve nature and promote innovative ideas. Here, you supported the quality of education.

Image credit and source: Erik Cleves Kristensen, https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/f/fc/Mozambique_school.jpg/640px-Mozambique_school.jpg

Supporting effective learning is key to designing for SDG4. This involves creating environments that encourage interaction among students and teachers, including flexible classrooms and collaborative study areas. Additionally, integrating technology, such as smart classrooms and digital labs, can enhance modern educational tools.

Interactive activities. Think to integrate architectural spaces for it! acommons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Rota_Elementary_School_hosts_Third_Annual_STEAM_Family_Night_(7777003).jpg

Provide affordable and cost-effective educational buildings, like schools for refugee children, to ensure equality in education. Please explore the following projects for innovative architectural solutions: 1- https://www.archdaily.com/770749/escuelas-modulares-de-andamios-y-arena-permiten-educar-a-los-ninos-refugiados-en-jordania

2- https://arquitecturaviva.com/works/school-for-refugees-in-mae-sot 3- https://www.independent.co.uk/news/syria-refugee-school-zaatari-win-archdaily-eahr-architecture-prize-photos-amman-a8212496.html

Some initiatives are available at the following sources 1- https://www.impactstartupacademy.com/blog/organizations-providing-free-education-for-unsdg-4-quality-education

2- https://www.coe.int/en/web/education/sdg4-all-activities/-/asset_publisher/nHbKqYIdioF8/content/previous-projects 

Cost-effective educational facilities for refugees. https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:South_sudanese_refugee_children_coming_form_school_near_a_home_stead.jpg

I believe now you can consider the quality of education in your designs. Please let's start. Dr.Ahmed Abouaiana March, 2025