College - Author 1

College of Architecture and Environmental Design

Department - Author 1

Architectural Engineering Department

Degree Name - Author 1

BS in Architectural Engineering

College - Author 2

College of Architecture and Environmental Design

Department - Author 2

Architectural Engineering Department

Degree - Author 2

BS in Architectural Engineering

College - Author 3

College of Architecture and Environmental Design

Department - Author 3

Architectural Engineering Department

Degree - Author 3

BS in Architectural Engineering

Date

12-2024

Primary Advisor

Kevin Dong, College of Architecture and Environmental Design, Architectural Engineering Department

Additional Advisors

Thomas Fowler, College of Architecture and Environmental Design, Architecture Department

Abstract/Summary

In 2007 David Lambert, a Cal Poly ARCE alumnus, was inspired to build a school in Tanzania after spending time in Kenya completing his senior project. With the support of multiple Cal Poly faculty members, he assembled a team to launch what would become his master’s program project. Since no existing organizations could support their efforts, the team founded their own initiative, the Mbeses Initiative for Sustainable Design (MISD). The Cal Poly team shared their design ideas with multiple volunteer groups in Tanzania and eventually connected with Fr. Setonga who helped the initiative gain traction. A few years later, the construction of the school began. Throughout the years since the initiative was started, the team has brought many Cal Poly students to Tanzania giving them an amazing opportunity to learn by doing and help build a community across the globe. The initiative has also brought work to and lifelong connections with the local Tanzanian people.

The MISD team selected Same, Tanzania, as the proposed site for a polytechnic college to expand access to higher education in the region. In rural towns like Same, quality education is often limited. The area has a semi-arid climate, with a rainy season from March to May, and faces challenges due to a lack of infrastructure. Despite these difficulties, Same is a stunning town, surrounded by vast volcanic mountain ranges and plains dotted with acacia trees. It was a privilege to work in such a beautiful place, alongside its warm and welcoming people.

After researching the available senior projects for the spring of 2024, the Tanzania Build project was the most compelling choice. It seemed to be the most impactful, memorable, and sustainable with the potential to create a lasting legacy. The 2024 summer trip was planned to design and construct desks for primary students and a roofing system for the test structure, alongside other smaller projects. Throughout this almost year long project much was learned and much was completed.

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