Boosting Female Participation in Vocational Programs at Zaatari Camp: Architectural Approaches to Empowerment

Abstract

This study investigates the role of architectural design in enhancing female vocational engagement at the Zaatari Refugee Camp in Jordan. The research aims to address entrenched gender inequalities and educational barriers faced by refugee women through culturally sensitive and empowering architectural interventions. By applying feminist design principles, the project seeks to create safe, inclusive spaces tailored to women’s needs, fostering participation in vocational programs. A mixed-methods approach, combining surveys, interviews, focus groups, and observational data, evaluates the impact of these interventions on participation rates, mental well-being, and economic empowerment. The anticipated outcomes include increased vocational program enrolment, improved mental and social health, and enhanced community resilience. By providing empirical evidence on the relationship between architectural design and women’s empowerment, this study contributes to broader efforts to promote gender equity and sustainable community development in refugee contexts globally.

Presenters

Paula Calixto Egues
Student, Master of Architecture, Griffith University, Queensland, Australia

Details

Presentation Type

Poster Session

Theme

Architectonic, Spatial, and Environmental Design

KEYWORDS

ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN, GENDER EQUITY, VOCATIONAL ENGAGEMENT, REFUGEE CAMPS, FEMINIST DESIGN