Khartoum Polytechnic Complex

Notes

Following Sudan's independence, educational buildings were the top priority in the aid programme, Khartoum Polytechnic Complex (later on becoming Sudan University of Science and Technology) being one of them. The campus is located on a land of 35 acres, and includes several multi-storey teaching blocks, a library, workshops, hostels, staff houses, and a stadium.

The teaching block comprises horizontal bands that are interrupted by the exposed columns which continue up to hold a second roof of sheet metal. This second roof is constructed at an angle from the first concrete one; an approach that shades the roof while keeping it well ventilated. 

An important feature of the project is the main library. It is screened with decorative, non-structural sun-breakers of pre-cast concrete blocks. 

The project's structural engineer was a Lebanese, Roger Ayoub. 

Sources

Osman, Omer Siddig. "Sudanese Architecture around Independence." ArchiAfrika Conference Proceedings: Modern Architecture in East Africa around Independence. Dar es Salaam, Tanzania: July 27-29 2005. p.56.

Osman, S. Omer and Amira O. S. Osman. "Khartoum's Modern Heritage." In Docomomo Journal 32, March 2005. p. 69.

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