Culture is one aspect of human beings that connects them to one another. One such component of culture is architecture – how different tribes use different building materials to build their houses, and the significance that each material has on them, if any. The focus of our endeavour was the Basotho architectural designs that are observed to have lasted for generations. This journey was made possible by the collaboration between the University of the Free State Department of Architecture and the Office for International Affairs. The Department of Architecture had the privilege of hosting a group of students from Chulalongkorn University in Thailand as part of their summer school visit to the University of the Free State, South Africa.
The visit was unique, as it aimed to document and learn about the rich history of Basotho architectural building designs. One of the lecturers alluded that the students were here (in the Free State) “to expose them to South African traditional architecture that is earth-based”. Furthermore, he continued to express that not much has been written about the Basotho and their architecture; hence, this is an opportunity for the students to learn and to bring them to the site of these unique designs.
The Thai students and their UFS counterparts and lecturers embarked on this journey from Bloemfontein to the eastern part of the Free State, where the renowned Basotho Cultural Village is located. The village, now regarded as a historical site, is nestled in the majestic landscapes of the Eastern Free State. It is further viewed as a living museum, as it is a cultural heritage site for the Basotho people, preserving their architectural designs/traditions, among other things. The trip was an opportunity for these students to immerse themselves in the practices and values that are still displayed through actions, ceremonies, and architectural designs.
The Basotho people have long practised the tradition of using locally sourced materials such as thatch, mud, stones, and cow dung in their building process. The choice of materials is crucial and strategic for the sustainability of the houses and the ease with which these houses can easily be renovated and made new, as it is tradition to do so over time.
One of the lecturers – when asked about their experience using traditional building materials such as mud and cow dung – said she felt like a student, because she was not used to working with her hands. Rather, her job was/is primarily focused on observing, documenting, and drawing designs on paper as opposed to doing the actual work. As for the students, they expressed their gratitude for having experienced such methods of building houses, noting that not many students get or will get the opportunity to come to South Africa and experience what they have experienced.
Coupled with this sentiment of gratitude, the students also expressed how they enjoyed the traditional food of the Basotho people and the classic South African braai. All these added to their experience on this journey to South Africa.
This cross-cultural engagement brought about a fruitful and invaluable experience for students and hosts. For the students, the visit gave them stories of people who have a profound connection to their land, traditions, and remaining true to their identity and culture. For the hosts, while this was a visit by students, it gave them the opportunity to share and celebrate their practices and culture on an international level. This collaboration between the two departments and universities has shown the importance of collaboration across borders, while providing cultural education to both of these university partners.