THE TSUNAMI CHALLENGE: AFTER THE TENT
The challenge of the workshop was to brainstorm innovations in the resettlement process
for Tsunami affected countries. Immediate large-scale demands, limited materials, disrupted
communities, stressed government capabilities suggest new thinking is welcome. Tapping the
creativity of students from throughout the extended MIT community offered an opportunity to rethink
approaches to housing disaster-affected families.
The Challenge targeted the phase after the immediate disaster needs are addressed, and
the search is for more permanent housing and settlement. What can be done that bridges immediate
disaster relief and permanent development? Tents are the standard quick first-response for
resettlement, but they have a limited lifespan and can only be temporary. "After the tent" captures the
concept of the next step, and this is the focus of the challenge.
Students from MIT, Harvard, Rhode Island School of Design, Tufts, and the Boston
Architectural Center participated in 6 teams. The Challenge was carried out over a "short" week: the
first two afternoons were "resource sessions" on Indonesia and Sri Lanka, the remaining two
afternoons were spend in individual team mentoring, and the final presentations were Friday
afternoon.
