Campus Master Plan

The result of an international design competition that includes design of the first academic building, Hanbury's master plan for the new Angola Central Highlands University (ACHU), will transform the future of young people in the Bié province of Angola by providing educational access and transforming them into world citizens. Because its remote location in Angola's war-troubled central highlands, development of the site and infrastructure needed to be totally self-sufficient, ecologically sensitive, and sustainable. 

Responding to the directive to marry “the best of Angolan (African) culture, its ancient educational system, and modern architectural design,” the team invested deeply in understanding the country's cultural traditions as well as the challenges it faces. The fractal pattern layout of the campus plan is among the more distinct interpretations, drawn from indigenous village planning principles. The siting of the campus takes into consideration orientation for solar benefits, hydrological flows through the site, and potable water needs.

The Access Academy will be the first building; it will serve multiple start-up functions while serving as a gateway to English and higher education. Flexibility and scalability will be key attributes as buildout continues. The vision for ACHU paves the way for a “harmonious and vibrant sanctuary of higher learning.”

We are made wise not by the recollection of our past, but by the responsibility for our future.

George Bernard Shaw