Goals

1. Promotion and Advancement: To advance the study and research of African architectural aesthetics, exploring its philosophical underpinnings and cultural significance.

2. Interdisciplinary Dialogue: To foster interdisciplinary dialogue and collaboration among scholars, practitioners, and students of philosophy, architecture, art, history, anthropology, sociology, and other related fields, both within and outside Africa.

3. Spirituality and Aesthetics: To promote understanding and appreciation of the role of religious beliefs and spirituality in African architecture and aesthetics, recognising their profound influence on design principles and practices.

4. Development of Theories and Practices: To contribute to the development and dissemination of African architectural theories, methods, concepts, principles, and practices that address contemporary challenges and opportunities facing Africa and the world.

5. Engagement with Communities: To engage with local and global communities through public lectures, workshops, exhibitions, publications, consultations, and other outreach activities, showcasing and sharing the rich diversity of African architectural aesthetics.

6. Mentorship and Leadership: To support and mentor the next generation of African architectural thinkers and leaders, providing academic guidance, research supervision, teaching opportunities, and professional development for graduate students and postdoctoral fellows.

7. Celebration of Legacy: To honor and celebrate the legacy of Demas Nwoko, a pioneer and icon of African architectural aesthetics, by promoting the study and appreciation of African architecture and aesthetics.

Scope:

The scope of the Demas Nwoko Chair encompasses the history, spirituality, philosophy, aesthetics, contemporary challenges, and opportunities facing African architecture. It includes research into traditional and modern architectural practices, their cultural contexts, and their implications for sustainable development and cultural preservation.

Unveiling:

The unveiling of the Demas Nwoko Chair was a momentous occasion, commemorating the legacy of Demas Nwoko and marking the beginning of a new era in the study and promotion of African architectural aesthetics. The ceremony included keynote addresses, panel discussions, exhibitions of a few of Nwoko’s works, and cultural performances.

Responsibilities:

In addition to the previously outlined responsibilities, the Demas Nwoko Chair is tasked with organising the African Architectural Aesthetics Exhibition Day, showcasing the richness and diversity of African architectural heritage through curated exhibits, interactive displays, and educational programs.

Targets and Deliverables:

The Chair will organise at least two African Architectural Aesthetics Exhibition Days during its first tenure of five years, providing opportunities for scholars, students, professionals, and the public to engage with African architectural heritage and aesthetics in meaningful ways.

By embracing these responsibilities and goals, the Demas Nwoko Chair of Philosophy of African Architectural Aesthetics will serve as a beacon of scholarship, innovation, and cultural enrichment, contributing to the global conversation on architecture, aesthetics, and heritage preservation.