INES-Ruhengeri Hosts Workshop on Urban Justice and Sustainable Housing

INES-Ruhengeri concluded a two-day academic workshop held from 23 to 24 June 2025, under the theme “Reimagining Urban Futures in Rwanda: Bridging Global Urban Design with Local Realities.” The workshop brought together students, faculty members, and urban development practitioners to explore inclusive approaches to spatial planning and housing, with Musanze serving as a key case study.

The workshop was facilitated by Dr. Eng. Arch. Agnieszka Włoch-Szymla, from the Department of Spatial Management, Institute of Spatial Management and Urban Studies at the College of Public Economy and Administration, Krakow University of Economics, Poland. She arrived at INES-Ruhengeri on 23 June 2025 for a five-day academic visit, during which she is leading the workshop through the Department of Architecture.

Her visit is part of an ongoing academic exchange under the Erasmus Plus mobility programme, established through a cooperation agreement between INES-Ruhengeri and Krakow University of Economics. She was officially welcomed by Dr. Mireille BIRARO, Senior Lecturer in the Department of Land Management and Valuation and Director of International Relations at INES-Ruhengeri.

Although initially planned as a three-day program, the workshop was successfully completed in two intensive days. Sessions focused on the application of urban justice principles in the context of Rwanda’s secondary cities, highlighting spatial equity, sustainable housing, and inclusive planning practices.

Participants were introduced to the concept of the “Just City”, which emphasizes equity in access to services, infrastructure, and opportunities. Through lectures, group discussions, and mapping exercises, students reflected on local spatial inequalities, particularly in Musanze, and explored ways to incorporate justice into future urban development.

A central activity involved the creation of “justice maps”, student-led visual assessments identifying gaps in housing, transportation, green spaces, and service provision. These maps formed the basis for collaborative design sessions where participants developed conceptual housing clusters that emphasized affordability, dignity, and accessibility.

Building on case studies from countries including Kenya, Colombia, Indonesia, and several European contexts, students expanded their housing designs into integrated urban development proposals. These included considerations for mobility, environmental infrastructure, and community facilities tailored to Musanze’s urban dynamics.

The workshop concluded with final presentations and a group reflection on how young planners can contribute to more equitable urban growth in Rwanda.

This initiative reflects INES-Ruhengeri’s commitment to applied, interdisciplinary learning and international collaboration. By bridging global expertise with local insight, the institution continues to prepare students to become agents of sustainable development in their communities and beyond.