A youth-driven initiative to construct classrooms using locally sourced materials is seeking to revive communal building traditions while addressing infrastructure gaps in rural schools.
Architect Reuben Agyegelone said the project, dubbed the “Rekindle Roots Project,” is designed not only to improve learning spaces but also to restore the spirit of communal labor once common in Ghanaian communities.
“Back in the day, people built together as a community. We want to bring that back, showing that we don’t always have to wait for government to solve every problem,” he said.
The project in Pelungu aims to replace unsafe, deteriorating school structures with modernized versions of traditional rammed earth buildings. The approach emphasizes sustainability, affordability and local participation.
Mr Agyegelone said the initiative is already attracting interest from young volunteers willing to contribute labor and learn practical construction skills.
He noted that the project also seeks to change how communities view education by providing attractive, functional classrooms that motivate children to attend school.
“When children learn in a space that inspires them, it changes their mindset about education,” he said.
Organizers plan to work directly with the community over a short construction period, engaging residents in the building process while transferring skills that can be used beyond the project.
The initiative also aims to encourage broader youth involvement in community development.
Mr Agyegelone urged professionals in various fields to contribute their expertise to local development efforts.
“You don’t need a lot of money to make an impact. Start with what you have and your skills,” he said.
If successful, the project could serve as a model for similar grassroots interventions across Ghana, blending traditional knowledge with modern innovation to tackle development challenges.
